Care home organises couple's special day

A devoted Hamilton couple had an extra-special celebration of their 56th wedding anniversary as they renewed their vows at a “beautiful” ceremony and reception.

- JUDITH TONNER

Joan and Jim Shepherd, who were married in 1969, exchanged vows once again to mark the occasion at the event at St Anne's hall in the town - where their day was complete with elegant decor, flowers, speeches, favours and a wedding cake.

The big day was organised by staff at Abercorn House Care Home, where Jim has been a resident for the past year, after they were inspired by the happy couple's decades-long love story, and they told how “there wasn’t a dry eye” among their assembled family and friends.

Jim and Joan were surrounded by loved ones including their children Andrea and John as they renewed their vows.