Ashcroft care home resident gives romantic advice to young valentines

A resident from Ashcroft care home has offered romantic advice to young couples celebrating Valentine’s Day this week.

Maniben Chouhan, who was married to husband Hargovind for 58 years, said the secret to their marriage was to find a partner who you can talk to them about anything.

Grandmother Maniben, 81, who has lived at Anchor’s Ashcroft care home in Kelvin Way since December last year after Hargovind passed away, said: “Our most romantic day was our wedding day and every day together after that was special. 

“We had a large Asian wedding in Mwanza in Tanzania. We had a very close relationship, living and working together.

“I was lucky because I found a kind, loving man who I could rely on and who I could talk to about anything.
“Valentine’s Day is a chance to show you care for someone you love.”
Maniben and Hargovind ran a motel for more than 20 years and she was responsible for making all the meals.  

Maniben, who has three children and two grandchildren, will be joining her friends at Ashcroft for a Valentine’s meal with an entertainer on Friday (14 February).

Ashcroft Manager Emma Ciccone said the Valentine’s party 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 all made from fresh seasonal ingredients. Older people have a life time of experience when it comes to love so it’s great Maniben can offer younger couples advice.

“The party is part of Ashcroft 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.”