Kingsley Court care home in Hayes hosted a special celebratory party to mark the 54th wedding anniversary of resident Brian Rudge and his wife Maureen.  

Brian, who has been a resident at the home since November 2016, celebrated the milestone with Maureen as part of an afternoon tea, which included a large home-made fresh cream sponge cake, decorations and music. 

Maureen, who lives nearby in Hillingdon, visits Brian every day and was delighted with the anniversary surprise that was arranged by staff at Kingsley Court.

Brian and Maureen met in 1959 when Brian was 18 and Maureen was 16.

They both worked for the Co-operative Society, Brian as a milkman and Maureen in a grocery store.

In the Spring of 1960 Brian joined the RAF, beginning 24 years of military service.

He completed two periods of active duty, one in Singapore and Borneo and one in the Falkland Islands. 

He retired from the service in 1985 at the rank of Flight Sergeant and went to work for Hillingdon Council.

He was there for 21 years until his retirement.

Brian and Maureen married in January 1963 during the coldest winter on record. 

They have two daughters, Jane and Sarah, and have four grandchildren.

Maureen says: “I will never forget the day Brian first walked into the shop where I was working. He was so handsome with a wonderful smile, so polite and with such perfect manners.  I think I fell in love with him from that moment. 

“We have had a very happy marriage, and have enjoyed many exotic holidays to fantastic places.  I cannot believe 54 years have gone by; how lucky I have been.  I still love Brian as much today as I did when I married him, maybe even more.” 

Brian has been diagnosed with vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s and is cared for by the team at Kingsley Court, which is part of the Healthcare Homes group. 

Maureen said: “No amount of nurse training ever prepares you for living with a loved one with dementia and I will always be grateful for the care that the staff at Kingsley Court provide. The warmth, comfort and care are in abundance to both of us.” 

Kingsley Court is based on Uxbridge Road in Hayes. 

For more information visit www.healthcarehomes.co.uk or call 0208 561 6681.