The Terrace Celebrates Richmond Diamond Couple

Home news

Aug 20, 2014

Care UK’s The Terrace care home in Richmond put on a sparkling celebration for resident Gerald Swainston and his wife Doreen as they celebrated their Diamond Wedding Anniversary.

The local couple, who married in 1954, celebrated the day with family and friends as well as other residents and the staff at the home.

The couple were serenaded by local singer Gerry Hodgson and Kian Swainston - Rainford, and Matthew and Simon Dawson, their three grandsons, who performed timeless classics throughout the day and guests enjoyed food provided by the home’s very own chef.

Speaking about the special day, Gerald said: “I first met Doreen when she was 16 and it really was love at first sight. The past 60 years have flown by; a lot of people grow out of love but ours keeps getting stronger and we love each other more than ever."

“It was lovely that the team here at The Terrace took the time to celebrate our Diamond Anniversary. It really is a home away from home and the staff are so friendly, it was a pleasure to have our celebration here.”

Before retirement, Gerald worked as a surveyor to the Diocese of Ripon and Leeds and Doreen was head teacher to infants at Richmond Church of England School.

The couple have always been active members of the local community and strived to help and assist people in any way they could. Gerald was Chairman of Richmond Round Table, Chairman of Richman Rotary and was Warden of the Mercers, Grocers and Haberdashery Guild, while Doreen was Chairman of Richmond Ladies Circle and Guild Lady who regularly visited York and London Guilds.

The couple enjoy spending time with their two daughters, Anne and Marie, and their six grandchildren.

Nicola Wilkins, home manager at The Terrace, said: “Here at The Terrace, we like to make all our residents feel at home by keeping to any traditions they may have and by taking the time to celebrate special days like anniversaries.”

“It was such an honour to celebrate Gerald and Doreen’s Diamond Anniversary with them here at the care home and everyone had a fantastic time. The home team were especially excited to celebrate with the couple and hear stories about their life together.”

Situated on Maison Dieu, The Terrace has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The home offers a range of specialist care including residential, dementia and respite care.

For further information on The Terrace please visit careuk.com/the-terrace or call 0333 434 3078.

Care UK runs 113 care homes and also provides care for thousands of people living in their own homes. 

For more general information, please go to www.careuk.com.