Maple Tree Court care home resident offer romantic advice to young valentines

A resident from Maple Tree Court care home in Stoke on Trent has offered romantic advice to young couples celebrating Valentine’s Day.

Lillian Dean, 91, is new to being an ‘agony aunt’ but hopes her experience of married life will help young couples have a happy and long relationship.

Lillian will join the other residents at Anchor’s Maple Tree Court in Gloucester Road for a week of Valentine’s themed events. Activities for the residents include: a pamper day followed by a night out at the movies with the home showing Gone with the Wind; a bridal catwalk show with staff wearing their wedding dresses and dinners for two in the home’s tea room where diners will be serenaded by an entertainer.

Lillian, who was married to Bill for 64 years, said the secret to their marriage was to never take each other for granted.

She said:

The advice I would give to young couples is come to agreements together and make time for each other, whether it’s going out dancing or meals out. Always be honest to your wife or husband.

“There were so many special moments on my wedding at St Peter’s Church in Stoke. There were so many friends and family, and I wore a lovely long dress. The day felt magical.

“Bill and I had a lovely relationship. My favourite Valentine’s present from him was a book he wrote about how much he loved me. It was such a wonderful present.”  

Rachael Loweth, one of Maple Tree Court’s Deputy Managers, said the Valentine’s themed week was part of a packed programme of activities at the care home.

She said: “This is such an exciting event. There will be lots of fun, colour and wonderful food.

“Older people have a life time of experience when it comes to love so it’s great Lillian can offer younger couples advice.

“The Valentine’s themed week is part of Maple Tree Court’s ongoing programme of interesting activities which aim to stimulate the residents physically and mentally.

“Such events are also a great occasion for residents to socialise with friends and their families.”