Basingstoke couple mark 68 years of marriage

A Basingstoke couple have celebrated a remarkable milestone – and shared their advice for a long and successful marriage.

Keith and Shirley Blagbrough, residents at Care UK’s Dashwood Manor, on Bradley Way, proved they are an ironclad couple when marking their 68th wedding anniversary.

To celebrate their special milestone, the care team organised a party with their family and reminisced about their lives together. 

Keith said: “The occasion was a wonderful celebration and a special opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones while reflecting on the many happy years we have shared together”

When asked about the secret to a long and happy marriage, Keith, 91, joked and said: “The secret is to say ‘Yes dear!’ to your wife.”

Shirley, 94, added: “You must have good communication and be willing to compromise on things”.

Both born in Huddersfield, the pair met at a dance through a mutual friend. Describing that moment, the couple agree that it was “love at first sight”. 

Keen to see her again, Keith invited Shirley on their first date to watch Gone with the Wind at the cinema. They spent the rest of the night chatting and getting to know one another.

A few years later, the couple married at Saint Barnabas’ Parish Church in Crosland Moor on a sunny autumn day. 

Keith and Shirley’s shared passion for football led them to support Wycombe Wanderers, attending games and cheering in the crowd whenever they could. After retiring from the BBC, Keith even became the football club's director and enjoyed organising events and leading the team to success. 

Together, they have two sons, Guy and Tim, and two grandchildren, with whom they enjoy spending time. They continue to cherish the memories and adventures that have shaped their life together as they create new ones at Dashwood Manor.

Miranda Morgan, Home Manager at Dashwood Manor, added: “It was extra special celebrating the love between Keith and Shirley. Their devotion to one another is a beautiful example of long-lasting love and commitment.   

“Celebrating big milestones and making the day as special as possible for residents is really important to us here at Dashwood Manor, and Shirley and Keith’s anniversary was most definitely a special one to mark.

“It was truly a privilege to listen to the memories and wisdom Keith and Shirley shared with us – happy 68th anniversary to you both!”  

Dashwood Manor is designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives while also promoting independence. The new care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities with luxury facilities, including a café, hair and beauty salon, cinema, bar and gardens.