Love was in the air at a care home as two of its residents celebrated their emerald wedding anniversaries.

Roy Goddard and Sandy Warren who both live at Chestnut House Nursing Home in Dorchester celebrated their 55th wedding anniversaries with their spouses on Thursday, March 28.

Richard Smith, Chestnut House Manage, said: “It’s not often that we celebrate a 55th wedding anniversary, but to have two in the same home on the same day is a very joyous occasion.

“We celebrated in style with music and a large family meal with residents and families joining in.”

Roy and his wife Irene first met at a dance in a local pub in Pulham. Roy who worked at his uncle’s farm was approached by Irene because she didn’t want to walk home alone.

Mr Smith said: “Roy and Irene have a son and a daughter and five grandchildren. Irene was delighted that they celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary together, she was sad that it was not in their own home but happy that it was in Roy’s new home. She was very grateful to Marion (Head of Activities) who made the day extra special and full of joy and happiness.”

Alan and Sandy Warren met at a friend’s 21st birthday party in Eastbourne near Brighton. Sandy who was aged 16 at the time, was forced to sit next to him. Alan who was older than Sandy was at first reluctant to speak to her after spending three years in the army.

For their honeymoon the couple went on holiday to Wales to Colwyn Bay. Alan chose the location because it was where he spent his days as a child during the war. His father was based there for civil service.

Mr and Mrs Warren have a loving family including three grandchildren.

Mr Smith said: “When asked about how he felt having his 55th wedding anniversary at Chestnut House Nursing Home, Alan stated there was nowhere else he would rather be, he was with his friends and family, where he knows his wife is cared for and looked after really well. He is very happy with the care in the home and he feels Sandy is in great hands when he goes home on an evening.”