14/02/2026
❤️True Love Lives Here: Ken and Diane’s Story❤️
This Valentine’s Day, we didn’t just share flowers and cake - we shared a beautiful love story that has stood the test of time.
Ken and Diane first met back in 1965 while working for the RAF. Diane was a civil servant in accounts, and Ken a corporal technician. What began as workplace chats soon turned into daily lunch dates at the Malcolm Club — a small routine that quietly changed both their lives.
Ken’s job meant travelling far and often, with postings in many places (his favourite being Bahrain). While miles apart, their love grew through handwritten letters, and later, daily phone calls as technology caught up with their devotion. Diane stayed home with her mum — and their dogs and cats — waiting patiently for Ken’s return each time.
When asked about his fondest memory, Ken smiles and tells of a simple walk home after a night out in Stamford. Passing through a scruffy little cul-de-sac, he turned to Diane and said, “You will marry me, won’t you?”
Her reply? A big smile and, “Oh… go on then!”
They’ve now been married for 30 but been together for 60 wonderful years.
For their special Valentine’s meal, Ken thoughtfully requested their favourite — steak — and surprised his lovely wife with a bottle of champagne, which we were delighted to provide. He also gave Diane a beautiful Valentine’s card, a small but heartfelt gesture that meant so much. It was a truly special moment, and they had a wonderful time sharing their meal together, laughing, talking, and simply enjoying being by each other’s side.
Ken says he couldn’t love anyone more than he loved Diane then — and still does now. That love shines through in the smallest moments. As Diane was taken upstairs for their Valentine’s meal, Ken was asked if he wanted the light on. His answer said everything:
“Yes — let me see my beauty.”
His face truly lights up whenever he sees her.
Diane, equally devoted, says Ken has always been a kind, gentle man who has treated her exceptionally well all her life — and that she loves “the silly sod.”
Ken didn’t need to come into The Willows, but he simply couldn’t bear to be apart from Diane. After all these years, together is still exactly where they belong.
A reminder to us all that true love isn’t loud — it’s written in letters, shared lunches, soft smiles, and choosing each other every single day.
💐
(Consent has been taken from the lovely couple to share their story)
