Couples reveal secrets to a happy marriage
Couples at two care homes have been sharing their secrets to a long and happy marriage.
Residents at Care UK’s Skylark House in Horsham have been encouraging residents to share their secrets to a long-lasting marriage as part of their Valentine’s celebrations.
Residents and their spouses enjoyed a special afternoon tea, prepared by the home’s head chef, which included a variety of pastries, scones, sandwiches and cakes.
Among those attending was resident Doreen Harvey, and her husband Michael. The couple, who have been married for 52 years, met on a bus in Battersea, where Michael purposely got off at the same stop as Doreen in order to continue their conversation.
Commenting on the moment he saw Doreen for the first time, Michael said: “It was definitely love at first sight.”
When asked what advice they would give to young couples, the duo said: “Nothing comes easy, so you have to work at it. Learn from the older generations and never go to bed on an argument.”
Also enjoying the afternoon’s celebrations was Maggie Stokes and her husband, Harry, who lives at the home.
The couple met in 1992 where they went for a lunchtime drink and married two years later in 1994. The couple have three children, two daughters and one son.
When asked what the secret to a long marriage is, the couple agreed: “Having a good understanding and a strong friendship.”
Keen for the home’s setting to match the theme of the day, team members decorated the home’s dining room with rose petals, flowers, heart-shaped bunting and balloons.
Dorota Wolosyzn, home manager at Skylark House, said: “We thought Valentine’s Day was the perfect opportunity to encourage residents to reminisce with their partners, while treating them to a special romantic afternoon. It was great to be able to organise a special ‘date’ for them.
“Love truly is in the air at Skylark House, and many of the residents have also been reminiscing and sharing fond memories of their own wedding days; it was lovely to hear their stories too.”
Francis Court, in Copthorne, also part of the Care UK group, encouraged residents Alan and Betty Pocock to share their secrets to a happy marriage after more than 68 years together.
When asked what advice they would give to young couples, the married duo said: “Never expect too much from your partner. You must have trust and faith in them, but above all else, make sure you are happy and laughing – otherwise what’s the point?”
Alan and Betty met in 1948 where they went on their first date to the local cinema.
Keen for the home’s setting to match the theme of the day, team members decorated the home’s cinema room with rose petals, flowers, and balloons.