Smiles as romantic Preston care home couple Jack and Dorothy, 91, celebrate 71 years of marriage

Romantics Jack and Dorothy Harrison, both 91, were not able to go for their usual family meal with their three daughters, five grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren due to the Covid-19 outbreak - so kind hearted staff in the Sherwood Lodge ​care home, in Fulwood, Preston, brought the celebrations to them.

The inseparable couple, who share a room at the home, say they have never had a cross word.

They say their secret to a happy marriage is to "share all your likes with each other", such as their love of the great outdoors.

Jack said: "We couldn’t understand why everyone was so interested in our wedding anniversary. I suspected something was going on but didn’t expect the decorations, lovely cake, presents and of course the bubbly."

Dorothy said she was thrilled when the staff gathered to "sing and dance in celebration".

Family and friends sent gifts and cards and the staff at Sherwood Lodge sang and celebrated the occasion in style.

They were treated to bubbly, gifts and a cake made by the home's chef.

Fellow residents also congratulated the happy couple throughout the uplifting day.

Their daughter Lynn Aitchison, 67, said: "It's been difficult not being able to go round with presents and see the grandchildren. We usually go for a meal for their anniversary.

"This was a lovely surprise, the staff went above and beyond what they're there for and we are grateful."

The couple met at the Majestic Ballroom in Barnoldswick when they were both 16.

Jack was working as a projectionist at the cinema next to the ballroom, and decided to pop into the ballroom while a reel was running.

It was fate - he ran into Dorothy and they have been inseparable ever since.

Jack was stationed in Carlisle for his national service.

The couple then lived in Blackpool and Orchard Court on Black Bull Lane, Preston, before moving to Sherwood Lodge.

Charlene Porter, the home's general manager, said: “We had such a lovely day celebrating Jack and Dorothy’s anniversary. It’s so wonderful to see two

people still very much in love after all these years.”

Rob Frazer, activities coordinator, added: " I explained that such a marvellous occasion was not only beautiful to witness but it also gave the other residents and staff such a lift.

" My last sight of them that day was them walking back to their room down the corridor together. They are truly a lovely couple."