A Steyning couple who married a year after the end of World War Two have celebrated their 74th anniversary at Croft Meadow care home.
98-year-old Bill Williamson moved into the home in December 2019. Within less than a month his wife, 95-year-old Betty, moved to the home so she could remain with her husband.
Bill, a former RAF pilot during World War Two and Betty, who worked at the Home Office, married in Middlesex in August 1946. They lived most of their life in Kingston-upon-Thames before moving to West Sussex in the 1990’s to be closer to their family.
Prior to moving into Croft Meadow, the couple – who have four grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren – remained keen dancers and bowls players, despite their age.
The couple’s anniversary was celebrated in the home with staff and residents, which included a cake and other sweet treats.
Commenting on her celebration, Betty said: “Myself and Bill have had a very happy 74 years because we have always done everything together. We first met at a birthday party and it was love at first sight – we’ve been by each other’s side ever since.
“Just a month apart at the end of 2019 was too hard, which was why I decided to move into Croft Meadow. The staff were so accommodating, and we’ve made so many friends already.”
Home manager Andy Burt added: “Bill and Betty are the epitome of what every couple strives to be. It is a pleasure to have them in the home and we were delighted to celebrate their impressive anniversary with the other residents in the home.”
