Newark care home resident and wife celebrate golden wedding anniversary

At Bowbridge Court Care Home in Newark-on-Trent, Sylvia and Richard Woodhurst have toasted 50 extraordinary years of marriage on March 31, 2025 – exactly half a century since they exchanged vows on March 31, 1975, in Welwyn, Hertfordshire.

Sylvia and Richard Woodhurst have marked their golden wedding anniversary – 50 years since they said “I do” on March 31, 1975. Now a resident at HC-One’s Bowbridge Court Care Home, Richard’s enduring romance was celebrated in style with bubbles, cake, and the warm company of colleagues and fellow residents.

It all began with a spark ignited by fate – and a little help from family. Sylvia, née Darby, and Richard were brought together on a blind date orchestrated by Sylvia’s Aunt Peggy and Uncle Phil at their home in Hitchin, Hertfordshire.

From that first meeting, the couple’s journey took them to France for a dreamy honeymoon, a destination they have returned to time and again, captivated by its charm and culture. Music and travel top the cherished couple’s list of shared joys, a soundtrack and roadmap to their remarkable 50 years.

When asked what their secret to a long and happy marriage, Sylvia and Richard said: “We both cherish our love for travel and music, but from the day we met to now, we have remained two distinct individuals with just a handful of shared passions.

"That’s what keeps our lives vibrant – we are always delighting each other with fresh stories and discoveries from our own worlds.” The couple’s story is one of adventure and dedication. Sylvia began her teaching career in Canada before moving to England in 1974, where she inspired students with her love of history. Richard, meanwhile, shaped young minds as a design and technology teacher.

Together, they raised two children – son Marc, now married to Sian and living in Greenwich, and daughter Sue, who resides in the Lake District with Ethan, who is Sylvia and Richard’s first grandchild. The team at Bowbridge Court Care Home stepped up to make the occasion unforgettable.

Sylvia was thrilled by the flowers and framed photo gifted by the Bowbridge Court team for their 50th anniversary. The couple relished beef stroganoff, for lunch and then fruit and ice cream, topped off with decadent cake in a day bursting with love, smiles, and fun. Wendy Tomkins, Bowbridge Court Front of House Manager, stated: “We’re thrilled to honour Sylvia and Richard’s milestone with bubbles, cake, and a heartfelt celebration. Their love story is an inspiration to us all.”

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