Cheadle Couple Celebrates More Than Seven Decades of Marriage

An elderly woman and man, both with white hair, sit side-by-side in wheelchairs, holding hands, with gold balloons shaped like the numbers 7 and 3 hanging on the wall behind them.

Margaret and Henry Ashcroft, who live at Care UK’s Abney Court, celebrate 73 years of marriage

Margaret and Henry Ashcroft, who live at Care UK’s Abney Court, located in Abney Hall Park on Manchester Road, Cheadle, were joined by family as they celebrated 73 years of marriage.

The special occasion featured plenty of balloons, flowers and cards. The team also arranged an extra-special surprise for the couple: a visit from their son, who flew in from America for the occasion.

We enjoyed every minute!

Margaret/Henry said.

How They Met

Margaret and Henry were both born in Bootle, Liverpool, and first met when Henry agreed to join a friend on a double date. Although initially reluctant, Henry went along and was immediately drawn to his date, Margaret, marking the beginning of their lifelong romance.

Recalling their first meeting, Margaret said:

Henry was tall, dark and handsome - I wouldn't say no!

Their romance blossomed quickly, with Henry taking Margaret on their first date to the cinema to watch Abbott and Costello’s Hold That Ghost.

Seven Decades Together

The pair tied the knot in 1953, at St Monica’s Church in Bootle. They went on to welcome three sons.

When asked for the secret behind more than seven decades of marriage, Henry said:

Just do as you are told!

Julie McDowell, Home Manager at Abney Court said:

Reaching 73 years of marriage is an extraordinary achievement, and everyone here has loved celebrating this special milestone with the happy couple.

Henry and Margaret never cease to amaze us with their wisdom. Anyone who spends time with them can see that they still love each other deeply, so it’s been a privilege to celebrate their happiness with such a special occasion.

It’s been wonderful to mark such a special day alongside fellow residents, team members and their family. Happy anniversary to Henry and Margaret!

Abney Court provides full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care.

Filed under Community Stories

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