TWO residents of a Shinfield care home celebrated their wedding anniversary – for the 70th time.
Gordon and Linda Lovegrove, whose very name suggests a long, happy marriage, raised a glass to each other at Care UK’s Parsons Grange.
Accompanied by family and friends they celebrated their special milestone, and reflected on the secrets of their success as a couple.
“Never go to bed on an argument, ” they said, when asked about the ingredients of a happy marriage.
Gordon and Linda share a love of dancing.
Aged 20 and 17, they started their lives together after meeting at the old Olympia Ballroom in Reading.
Gordon said: “I will always remember the day we met.
“The thing I liked most about Linda was her smile.
The pair were married at Reading Church St John the Evangelist, on Watlington Street, on Saturday, July 24, 1954.
They now have two daughters, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
“The two main qualities that have helped our marriage to stand the test of time are patience and compromise,” continued Gordon.
“These are the most important aspects of a relationship.
“And, of course, it also helps that the word ‘love’ is in our name.”
To celebrate, the team at Parsons Grange decorated the home’s lounge with balloons and banners, and provided a special cake created by their head chef.
Rozina Ali, home manager at Parsons Grange, said: “We were honoured to be a part of such a special moment for Gordon and Linda.
“They are a wonderful couple, with lots of wisdom about building a strong and successful marriage that I think we could all learn from.
“We regularly celebrate big anniversaries and understand the importance of maintaining relationships and marking life’s milestones.
“The atmosphere in the home was wonderful and prompted many residents to reminisce and share fond memories of their own weddings.
“Happy anniversary, Gordon and Linda.”
Parsons Grange care home residents can enjoy leisure and hobby activities, a café, hair salon, bar and cinema.
For information, call: 0118 391 3294, email: claire.usher@careuk.com or visit: careuk.com/parsons-grange
