Care home resident celebrates 71st wedding anniversary by remarrying his 'best friend'

Kings Lodge Care Centre in West Byfleet has helped a special couple celebrate their 71st wedding anniversary by arranging a vow renewal ceremony attended by their closest family and friends.

Fred Cobbett (96) and his wife Monica (92) married in Woking, Surrey, on 24 June 1950 when they were both in their twenties. However, they have been living apart for the last three years, as Mr Cobbett moved to Kings Lodge Care Centre in 2018.

With 24 June 2021 marking the couple's 71st wedding anniversary care workers wanted to help the couple make the most of this special day. They set about organising a vow renewal ceremony for the couple, who were separated by the Covid-19 pandemic last year.

Shaleeza Hasham, head of hospitality and communications at CHD Living, said: "We couldn't believe it when we heard that Fred and Monica were soon to celebrate their 71st wedding anniversary! Not many couples reach this milestone, and we are told they are still just as in love as the day they married.

“Their relationship inspires everyone who sees them together - from the care staff to other residents in the home. Unfortunately, due to Monica living separately from Fred's care home, they have been separated by the COVID-19 pandemic in recent months, which was understandably very difficult for them. Thankfully, they are now able to see each other again a couple of times a week."

’I'm delighted to have been able to re-marry the love of my life’

With the blessing of their family, staff at Kings Lodge asked Reverend John McCabe from St Mary's Church in Byfleet to perform the renewing of their vows, which took place in the garden of the care home.

Amongst the special (socially distanced) guests were the couple's proud daughter, Sarah (who celebrated her 43rd wedding anniversary on the same day), and Monica’s sister, Sue North, who was a bridesmaid at their wedding.

Following the ceremony, Mr And Mrs Cobbett walked down the aisle to their favourite musical artist, Andre Rieu, before participating in a wedding shoot, allowing them to update their wedding photos whilst preserving memories of the special day.

Mr Cobbett then surprised his wife with a heartfelt gift; homegrown flowers and a necklace with preserved roses inside to mark their eternal love.

Mr Cobbett said: “Monica and I have been married for over seven decades, and we have never once run out of things to talk about. I know I can sit down and natter with her about anything, any time, any place. She is my best friend and confidante. I treasure every single one of my 71 years married to her, and greatly look forward to what’s yet to come.”

With flowers provided by the local florist, a cake made by a member of the local community, and guest seating provided by the local school, it was all hands on deck to make this a day for Mr and Mrs Cobbett to remember. Morrisons Weybridge also generously donated the cake and decorations as part of their Community Champion project.

Fred and Monica's 71st wedding anniversary from Pic PR Clients on Vimeo.

Mrs Cobbett said: “This is a milestone anniversary and one in which many people are not lucky enough to reach. I'm delighted to have been able to re-marry the love of my life and I cannot thank Kings Lodge staff enough for letting us relive the most important day of our lives.”

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