Chertsey Parklands Manor Care Home marked Valentine’s Day with a heartwarming celebration for four couples living together in the care home.
Each couple shared their personal love story, reflecting the bonds they’ve built over the years.
Michael and Ann De Leon, currently 90 and 98 years old, have been married for 70 years. The pair met at a fruit-picking farm in Cambridgeshire in 1953.
Michael has flowers delivered to Ann every month and has continued this loving tradition at Chertsey Parklands Manor Care Home since December 2024, when they both moved in.
This Valentine’s Day was no exception, as Michael brought Ann a stunning bouquet of yellow roses and blue irises.
Mike and Jean Walker, 88 and 89 years old, met in 1962 while working for Wall’s in Acton.
Jean was in the medical department, and Mike was the production manager. They have been married for 61 years and enjoyed travelling the world, including cruises.
Mike said, “I really enjoyed the company during our Valentine’s Day lunch and seeing so many long-married couples. Love really is forever.”
Bert and Pam Newby, 90 and 87 years old, known for their humour, met at a dance hall in Richmond, London.
The couple have been happily married for 67 years, and have three daughters who frequently visit the Avery Healthcare-owned care home to spend time with their parents.
Alan and Ann, 88 and 89 years old, were dressed to the nines in their finest attire for their Valentine’s Day lunch. The couple, who met as teenagers living on the same street, have now been married for 65 years.
Ann says, “I love living at Chertsey Parklands Manor Care Home. It’s very comfortable here. It’s lovely to have our housekeeping all done for us so we get more time to enjoy the activities.”
On Valentine’s Day, the care home’s bistro was transformed into a stunningly romantic setting, adorned with delicate decorations, bunting, and hearts that filled the air with love.
The couples were treated to an exquisite three-course meal and presented with a personalised Valentine’s card.
Helen, daughter of Alan and Ann, expressed her gratitude by saying, “Mum and Dad loved seeing their wedding photo displayed. It made the day even more special for them.”
Natalie Birch, Home Manager of Chertsey Parklands Manor Care Home, commented, “It’s a privilege to create moments like these, where our residents can celebrate the love they share, surrounded by a caring community.”
Chertsey Parklands Manor Care Home, part of Avery Healthcare, provides companion suites that allow couples to live together while receiving the support they need, all within a welcoming environment dedicated to exceptional care.
For more information about Chertsey Parklands Manor Care Home, click here, or call Robyn Sheppard, Client Liaison Manager, on 10932 876806.
