Love at first sight sparks Bridgend care home engagement

An engagement might typically be associated with youth, but for Pamela Walters and Colin Hopper, love blossomed later in life, culminating in a joyful commitment between the two. Pamela, aged 85 and originally from Coventry, and Colin, 73, from Blaengarw, Bridgend, first crossed paths while residing in the same care home. Their relationship developed over time, filled with laughter and companionship, leading to their engagement on 28 January at Picton Court Care Home near Porthcawl, in Bridgend county.

Their unique proposal story began when Pamela took the initiative and asked Colin to be engaged to her while they were in her bedroom. Touched by her gesture, Colin then arranged for a staff member to purchase an engagement ring, expressing how deeply he cared for her with words like “I thought the world of her” and “loved her to bits.” This tender moment marked the beginning of a new chapter in their lives after knowing each other for four years, during which Colin admits it was love at first sight. “I told her I loved her, and that was it,” Colin said.

Colin, who is a former miner, cherishes Pamela’s straightforward nature, remarking, “She’s very straight, and that’s what I like – people who don’t tell lies.” He enjoys their open conversations and often teases Pamela to lift her spirits. Pamela, a widow who spent 31 years running a pub, describes Colin as “interesting” and “kind.” She appreciates that he visits her daily and says the relationship fills her with happiness. One afternoon, Pamela invited Colin into her room and then asked, “Will you engage me?” to which Colin happily replied, “Yeah, of course I will.”

Since their engagement, Pamela has felt “marvellous” and really enjoys wearing her “lovely” ring. The couple celebrated the occasion with a party organized by the care home staff, who decorated the room beautifully. Pamela described the event as “a lovely, lovely day.” This newfound relationship has brought delight not only to Colin and Pamela but also to the staff at Picton Care Home. Manager Shajitha Augustine shared that Colin’s “very loud and bubbly” nature complements Pamela’s “very determined” spirit. Reflecting on the engagement, Shajitha expressed her happiness and emphasized that care homes can foster new friendships and companionship, rather than marking an end. Pamela’s daughter Susan Salvatore-Davies also welcomed the news, appreciating that her mother now has someone to share her days with during what can often be a lonely time. Although wedding plans are not yet underway, Pamela and Colin are happily enjoying their time together

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