Kidderminster couple reunited at care home for 70th anniversary

Frank Howell was already living at Astley Hall Care Home, near Stourport, when the Covid pandemic hit last year, meaning he and wife Joan were unable to see each other for several months - the longest they had spent apart in their seven decades of marriage.

Frank and Joan Howell on their wedding day in 1951

The lovebirds were finally reunited when Joan moved into the home to be with Frank in January - just in time for their 70th wedding anniversary on Friday, February 19.

The pair first met at a carpet factory in Halesowen, where they both worked, and were married in 1951 at St John's Church in Kidderminster.

Joan recalls walking out of the church on that cold but sunny morning and seeing the flowers in bloom.

The couple have fond memories of their honeymoon to Bournemouth. The hotel was a place that Frank's mother and father used to visit regularly, and Joan recalls the staff being shocked as they thought the newly-weds were actually Frank's parents.

Frank had previously worked at Jones Furniture in Kidderminster, while Joan grew up in Halesowen but moved to Kidderminster after meeting Frank and the couple spent much of their married life living in the town.

They had two sons, Andrew and Graham, who both went on to marry. Andrew and Karen had two daughters, Amy and Lucy, while Graham and Liz also had two girls, Laura and Vicky.

Frank and Joan Howell on their wedding day in 1951

When asked the secret to a long and happy marriage, Joan said: "Well obviously we have always gotten on. Like every marriage, you have your arguments and your moments but that’s what happens. You have to stay true to each other.’’

Joan always tells staff at Astley Hall: "I love Frank very much and always have."

Now aged 90 and 93, Frank and Joan are keeping each other positive during the lockdown and celebrated their platinum wedding anniversary alongside fellow residents and care home staff.