A Somerset couple, Ray and Win Booth, are marking an extraordinary milestone: 80 years of marriage. Their journey began in 1943 during World War II and culminated in their wedding in 1946, making them one of the UK’s longest-lasting married couples.
To honour this incredible achievement on Valentine’s Day, staff at Norewood Lodge Bupa Care in Portishead organized a special date night for the couple. They enjoyed their favourite dish, fillet steak, in celebration — although their actual anniversary is in August.
Their love story started when Ray, stationed in Canada with the RAF during the war, became pen pals with Win, thanks to a connection through one of Ray’s fellow servicemen. After years of correspondence and the war’s end, they finally met and married, beginning a lifelong partnership.
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When asked about the secret to their enduring marriage, Ray humorously responded, “I just do what I’m told.”
Pamela Arnsmeyer, Home Manager at Norewood Lodge, expressed admiration for the couple: “Ray and Win are incredibly special, and their enduring love is truly inspiring. Being married for eight decades is a phenomenal achievement, and we’re thrilled to make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable for them.”
Norewood Lodge, one of 115 care homes operated by Bupa, welcomes residents aged 50 and over who require nursing or residential care, including those living with Parkinson’s Disease. The facility offers a warm, engaging environment with activities like pet therapy, concerts, and homemade meals to enrich residents’ lives daily.