Tolson Grange couple offer romantic advice to young valentines

Stuart and Barbara Littlewood, who have been married for 45 years, said the secret to their marriage was supporting each other through the good and bad times.

Grandmother Barbara, 68, who visits Stuart, 76, every day since he moved into Anchor’s Tolson Grange care home in Coach House Drive two years ago, said: “Our most romantic day was our wedding day at Denby church and since then every day has been special.
“The secret to our marriage was to never stop laughing together and enjoy the good times.

“Valentine’s Day is a chance to show you care for someone you love and we are still in love after 45 years of marriage.”
Barbara, who was a PE teacher for 40 years, said that having a common interest and shared ambitions were important to sustaining a long and happy marriage.
She said: “We bought a farm in 1985 and it gave us a focus. We loved working together.

“Loving and taking an interest in the lives of our children, Denise and Gareth, and our four grandchildren has also been important.

“But most importantly my advice to young Valentines would be to pick the right partner. We did. We loved one another then and still do. Love grows with time if you give it a chance.”
Barbara advised young couples not to rush into a relationship, ensuring they spent time together to make sure they did love each other’s company.

She added: “Don’t get married for the big wedding. Think more about what comes after the big day. Think carefully about ‘for richer or poorer, in sickness and health’ before you commit to a life-long relationship.” 
Tolson Grange Manager Jacky Byrne said everyone could benefit from the lessons older people had learnt in their relationships.

She said: “Older people have a lifetime of experience when it comes to love so it’s great Stuart and Barbara can offer younger couples advice.”