April and Bob Celebrate Their Diamond Anniversary at Greenan Manor

It was game, set and match for April and Bob Harper as they celebrated an extraordinary milestone – their 60th wedding anniversary – at Meallmore's Greenan Manor Care Home in Doonfoot. Surrounded by family, friends, and fellow residents, the couple marked their Diamond Anniversary with a joyful celebration filled with memories, laughter and love.

From Wimbledon to a Life Together

Both aged 84, April and Bob’s story began 65 years ago with a first date at Wimbledon – a fittingly classic beginning to what would become a lifelong partnership. Originally from Staines, April had an adventurous early life. At just six years old, she moved to Hong Kong with her family, where her father served in the RAF. An early sign of her fearless nature, she competed in the 1949 Hong Kong High Diving Championship at only eight years old, beating the adult competition.

Returning to the UK, April pursued a career as a British Airways air hostess, where she met Bob – then a police officer from Kirkcudbright – at Heathrow Airport. Their connection was instant, and their first date to watch tennis blossomed into a loving marriage that has stood the test of time.

After many years living in England, the couple felt the pull of Scotland in their seventies. Bob wanted to return to his roots, and they made the move to Ayr, where family and familiar faces awaited them. It was a heartfelt return that has brought them even closer to their extended community.

A Celebration of Love and Family

To honour the occasion, Greenan Manor hosted a party that captured the warmth and joy of April and Bob’s marriage. Their day was made even more special with a personal visit from Provost Mary Kilpatrick and a congratulatory card from King Charles III and Queen Camilla – a royal touch for a truly regal couple.

Bob offered some words of wisdom on the secret to a long-lasting marriage: “No relationship is perfect. Things sometimes go wrong, but it’s important to be honest, remember important dates and most importantly to forget about yesterday and keep on trying.”

Living Our Values

April and Bob’s celebration reflects everything we value at Meallmore. At Greenan Manor, and across all of our homes, we strive to Create welcoming environments, Act with accountability, Recognise the contributions of our colleagues and residents, and Engage in continuous improvement. These C.A.R.E. values guide us as we support each resident in living a life filled with dignity, joy, and purpose.

Joe Janikowski, General Manager at Greenan Manor, shared: “It has been an honour for Greenan Manor to be part of April and Bob’s special day. Their marriage is an inspiration to us all and it is lovely that their family could come together and celebrate such a momentous occasion. They’ve both lived fascinating lives, and we love hearing their stories – it was a pleasure listening to them talk about their 60 plus years together.”

He added: “We pride ourselves on the importance of family and we take every opportunity to celebrate milestones such as anniversaries and birthdays. I’m really proud of the team and pleased that April and Bob enjoyed their day.”

A Place to Call Home

Greenan Manor is located on Tiree Avenue, with sweeping views across Ayr Bay. The purpose-built home offers high-quality ensuite accommodation, thoughtfully designed communal spaces, and personalised support for a range of care needs including dementia and nursing care.

At Meallmore, we believe in celebrating life in every way we can – from the everyday joys to the extraordinary milestones. April and Bob’s Diamond Anniversary is a shining example of love that lasts and lives that continue to be full of adventure, connection, and celebration.

We are proud to share in their story and honoured to call them part of the Meallmore family.