Celebrating 73 Years Of Marriage With Residents Dorcas And Bert At Castle View
When Dorcas and Albert Blann moved into Castle View Care Home in 2022, the team realised that a very special couple had joined their family of residents. Earlier this month, Dorcas and Bert celebrated 73 years of marriage, having known each other since childhood.
Childhood Sweethearts Stay True
Although Dorcas (nee Costain) was born in Peel, her father – a customs officer – was stationed in Gravesend at the same time as Bert’s father, also a customs officer. Dorcas and Bert met and soon became childhood sweethearts. After Burt left school he was called up into the army for a period of service - standard procedure after World War 2 when there the country still needed to keep up high levels of military manpower. Dorcas worked for a short time as a children's nurse and also modelled for Dior.
They married in 1951 at Christ Church, Gravesend, and spent their honeymoon in Cornwall. After their marriage Bert, who had followed in his father’s footsteps, was posted to Northern Ireland as a customs officer for 3 years. Both their children, Beverly and Andrew, were born there.
A Return to the Isle of Man
On leaving Ireland the couple returned to Gravesend to continue Bert’s career and lived there happily until deciding to relocate to Dorcas's beloved Peel in 1987. They enjoyed life to the full in Peel, being active members of the World Manx Association, with Dorcas acting as its president for a number of years. Dorcas was also a keen artist and renowned for her greeting card making, and Bert was an active bridge player for many years. They were both well known in the town and supported many activities in Peel.
When the day of their 73rd anniversary arrived, Dorcas & Albert began by having lunch together in the dining room. Member of the Castle View team congratulated them individually, and residents also wished them well and gave them cards.
A Toast to True Love
Later on, Dorcas and Bert enjoyed the company of friends, residents and the Castle View team at a celebratory tea party. The room was beautifully decorated and guests tucked into a delicious spread which included a fabulous cake made by Castle View’s chef – vanilla sponge filled with strawberry cream and butter cream. Bert drank his favourite tipple, dandelion and burdock, which many residents remembered from their childhood. Dorcas preferred lemonade – then both enjoyed a glass of prosecco as everyone raised their glasses to toast the occasion.
The question on everybody’s lips was, ‘What was the secret to having a lasting marriage?’. Albert said, "She is the best girl”, while Dorcas's answer was," I still love him…” and then, with a wink she added, “… but I let him think he is in charge!"
Discover Castle View Nursing Home
Castle View Nursing Home is located on the outskirts of the picturesque city of Peel on the island’s west coast sits, sitting within landscaped grounds, with stunning views over the hills and down to the sea. You’ll find first-class facilities, a range of activities for residents, a comfortable lounge and plenty space to relax in.
