Northbourne couple offer romantic advice to young valentines

An older couple from Gateshead have offered romantic advice to young couples celebrating Valentine’s Day this week.

Mark and Nora Piper, who have been married for 57 years, said the secret to their marriage was to remain in love no matter what life throws at you.

Great grandfather Mark, 82, who has lived at Anchor’s Northbourne care home in Durham Road since December last year, said: “Our most romantic day was our wedding day and since then every day has been special. We have been in love the full time. If we wanted to do something, we did it together.

“My advice to young couples is to be kind to each other and be selfless. Always stick together; the grass on the other side isn’t always greener. Remember to love each other! Valentine’s Day is a chance to show you care for someone you love and we are still in love after 58 years of marriage.”

After Mark and Nora were married at St Thomas Church in Gateshead, they had three children. They now have four grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Mark and Nora will be joining other couples at Northbourne on Friday for a Valentine’s three-course meal with each couple sitting at their own table in the community hub room. Other residents will also be treated to the same meal in the communal dining room.

Emma Robertshaw, Deputy Manager of Northbourne, which has been rated outstanding by regulator The Care Quality Commission, said the Valentine’s meal 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 lifetime of experience when it comes to love so it’s great Mark and Nora can offer younger couples advice.

“The Valentine’s meal is part of Northbourne’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.”

For more information about Northbourne, contact 0800 731 2020.