Anthony McPartlin & Declan Donnelly raise £60,000 to host a wedding reception for an 82-year-old couple in a care home — but the final “wedding gift” that brought tears to everyone’s eyes was…
A recording of her engagement vows, made in 1961, played over the loudspeaker… and her own voice repeated at today’s wedding — after 60 years of waiting. 💍🎧💒
A Wedding to Remember
In the quiet town of Newcastle upon Tyne, where the River Tyne flows gently and the community holds its history close, a story unfolded that would warm hearts far beyond its borders. Anthony McPartlin and Declan Donnelly, the beloved television duo known as Ant and Dec, had spent decades bringing joy to millions through their infectious laughter and heartfelt camaraderie. But in the summer of 2025, they embarked on a mission that would prove to be one of their most meaningful yet—a mission to give an elderly couple, George and Margaret Thompson, both 82, the wedding reception they never had.
George and Margaret had met in their teens, during a dance at the local community hall in 1960. George, with his shy smile and polished shoes, had asked Margaret for a waltz, and from that moment, their lives were intertwined. They married in a modest registry office ceremony in 1963, unable to afford the lavish celebration they dreamed of. Life had been kind but challenging, filled with raising three children, navigating financial hardships, and cherishing quiet moments together. Now, in their twilight years, they resided at Willow Care Home, where their love remained as vibrant as ever, though their health was frail.
The idea began with a chance encounter. Ant and Dec, long-time supporters of local charities, were visiting Willow Care Home to host a bingo night for the residents. As they chatted with the elderly, they met George and Margaret, who shared their story with a twinkle in their eyes. Margaret’s voice softened as she recalled their simple wedding day, and George admitted, with a chuckle, that he’d always promised her a “proper party” but life had gotten in the way. The duo’s hearts were touched. That night, as they drove back to their homes, Dec turned to Ant and said, “What if we could give them that party? A real wedding reception, right here, for everyone to celebrate?”
The plan took shape quickly. Ant and Dec, leveraging their fame and connections, launched a fundraising campaign to raise £60,000 for the event. They shared George and Margaret’s story on social media, inviting fans to contribute to what they called “The Love of a Lifetime Celebration.” The response was overwhelming. Donations poured in from across the UK and beyond—£10 from a schoolgirl in Manchester, £500 from a businessman in London, and countless messages of support. Within weeks, they hit their target, and preparations began.
Willow Care Home was transformed into a fairy-tale venue. The communal hall was adorned with white roses and fairy lights, reminiscent of the dance hall where George and Margaret first met. A local caterer donated a three-tiered wedding cake, decorated with delicate sugar flowers. A string quartet volunteered to play, and a vintage Aston Martin—similar to the one Ant had driven Dec to his own wedding in 2015—was arranged to give the couple a grand entrance. The care home staff, residents, and the couple’s family were all involved, ensuring every detail was perfect.
On the day of the reception, the air buzzed with anticipation. Margaret, radiant in a cream lace dress donated by a local designer, walked into the hall on George’s arm, who looked dapper in a tailored suit. The room erupted in applause as Ant and Dec, dressed in their signature suits, welcomed everyone. “We’re here to celebrate two people who’ve shown us what love really means,” Ant said, his voice thick with emotion. Dec added, “George and Margaret, this is your day, and we’re honored to be part of it.”
The afternoon was filled with laughter and tears. The couple shared their first dance to “Unchained Melody,” their frail bodies swaying gently as they gazed into each other’s eyes. Guests enjoyed a feast of traditional Geordie dishes, and Ant and Dec emceed the event with their trademark humor, sharing stories and coaxing residents to share their own love stories. George’s son, Michael, gave a heartfelt speech, thanking the duo for making his parents’ dream come true. “You’ve given them something we thought was impossible,” he said, his voice breaking.
As the evening drew to a close, Ant and Dec announced a final surprise—a “wedding gift” they’d kept secret until that moment. The room fell silent as Dec explained, “We’ve been so moved by George and Margaret’s love, and we wanted to give them something that would last forever.” Ant continued, “With the extra funds raised, we’ve set up the George and Margaret Thompson Love Fund, a charity to help other elderly couples in care homes across the UK celebrate their love, whether through anniversaries, vow renewals, or reunions.”
But that wasn’t the gift that brought everyone to tears. Dec gestured to a large screen at the front of the hall, and a video began to play. It was a montage of messages from people whose lives George and Margaret had touched over the years—former neighbors, childhood friends, their children’s schoolteachers, and even strangers who’d heard their story through the fundraiser. Each shared how the couple’s kindness, resilience, and unwavering love had inspired them. A young woman from Newcastle said, “My grandparents lived next door to them, and they always checked on them. That’s what love is—caring for others.” A former colleague of George’s added, “He worked hard but always had time to make us laugh. They’re the real heroes.”
The final message was from the couple’s great-granddaughter, Lily, aged 10, who appeared on screen holding a drawing of George and Margaret dancing. “I love you, Great-Gran and Great-Grandad,” she said. “You teach me that love is forever. Thank you for being you.” As the screen faded to black, the room was filled with sobs and applause. George, tears streaming down his face, held Margaret’s hand tightly. “I never knew we meant so much to so many,” he whispered.
Ant and Dec, visibly moved, joined the couple at their table. “You’ve reminded us all what matters most,” Dec said. “Love, family, community—it’s what makes life worth living.” Margaret, wiping her eyes, replied, “This isn’t just our day. It’s everyone’s. Thank you for showing us we’re not forgotten.”
The story of George and Margaret’s wedding reception spread far and wide, inspiring countless others to cherish their loved ones and give back to their communities. The George and Margaret Thompson Love Fund grew, hosting dozens of celebrations for elderly couples across the UK. For Ant and Dec, it was a reminder of the power of their platform—not just to entertain, but to unite people in acts of kindness.
As they left the care home that night, Ant turned to Dec and said, “This is why we do what we do, isn’t it?” Dec nodded, smiling. “Aye, mate. For moments like this.”