Teenage sweethearts who met on a blind date more than seven decades ago have celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary at their Wixams care home – and shared the secrets behind their lasting love.
Terry and Ruth Clarke, residents at Elstow Manor Care Home, first met in 1949 in Portsmouth. What began as a blind date turned into a lifelong romance, and the couple say they have been devoted to each other ever since.
The Bedford Road care home team marked the special milestone by baking a beautiful anniversary cake and organising a celebration with family and friends.
Terry said: “We could not believe it – it was so lovely to have everyone here to celebrate. Our wedding feels like it was only yesterday.”
Ruth said the secret to their long and happy marriage has been “always being kind to one another, having a good sense of humour and never going to bed on an argument.”
She added: “You have to be patient and listen to each other – and enjoy the little things in life together, be loving and forgiving.”
The couple, who have four children and 19 great-grandchildren, married in 1954 in Billingshurst, West Sussex.
Terry spent his career as an electrical engineer whilst Ruth was a primary school teacher.
The devoted couple, who previously lived in Steyning, West Sussex, enjoyed a special meal as part of the celebrations.
Elstow Manor Wellbeing and Lifestyle Coach Oliver Waddington said: “It was a pleasure to celebrate such an incredible milestone with Terry and Ruth. They are a wonderful couple and an inspiration to us all.”