A COUPLE who met on a blind date have been celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary at a city care home.

Ron and Doreen Higgins met by chance on a blind date when they were 16 and 17-years-old, after Doreen stepped in when Ron’s date cancelled.

Mr Higgins, 85, said it was love at first sight, saying: “I fell in love with Doreen straight away because she had, and still has, the most beautiful eyes I’ve ever seen.”

The pair were married in Rowley Church in February 1954, and Mr Higgins said: “It was one of the coldest days of the year, but our love for each other kept us warm.”

Mrs Higgins, 87, said one of the secrets to them staying together was that they are best friends, as well as husband and wife.

The pair, who have two children, Kathryn and Keith, moved to Perry Manor care home, in Worcester, last year having previously stayed at Breme Care Home in Bromsgrove.

Staff at the Charles Hastings Way-based home pampered the couple throughout the blue sapphire anniversary last Wednesday, and put on a romantic candlelit meal for the pair on the evening. Celebrations also continued into Thursday, as youngsters from Fairfield Day Nursery came in for a visit to the care home on Thursday, with a handmade card for the couple.

The pair’s daughter Kathryn added: “Perry Manor is an amazing place with wonderful staff who support Mom and Dad to continue to be together.

“They spend their days holding hands watching old films, taking part in activities and having regular visits from family and friends - who all visited for the anniversary.

“Mom and Dad had a card from the Queen for their 60th and now have a card from The Queen for this anniversary.”

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