A DAWLISH couple, who found love at the retirement development they both live in, have tied the knot in a local ceremony.

Wendy Bristow, 78 and Peter D’silva, 64, are both residents at Brooklands in Alexandra Road, an independent retirement living development managed by FirstPort. Having met in the communal areas of the site, the pair bonded over shared interests, including a mutual love of sailing.

After Covid lockdowns meant many residents became isolated from family and friends, residents at Brooklands were excited to enjoy their first annual barbecue in three years.

When Wendy and Peter both volunteered to take a lead on the arrangements for the event, collaboration soon developed into romance. After a brief courtship, Peter proposed to Wendy at her home, amid the backdrop of a playlist of Peter’s favourite love songs.

The pair recently tied the knot at St Mary’s Church in Cofton. They were joined by 60 family and friends, some travelling up to 250 miles to attend the big day, and to see Wendy escorted down the aisle by her youngest grandson.

Following the ceremony, the celebrations continued at a local venue, where the bride and groom cut their sailing-themed cake, which represents their shared interest is all things nautical, and also featured the symbol for Jehovah Nissi, to reflect, as Peter described it ‘a marriage made in Heaven’.

The newlyweds then took their first dance to a song penned by Peter, titled ‘When Wendy Met Peter’, before guests joined them for more dancing to live music from a jazz band.

Reflecting on their special day, Wendy said: ‘We’re very happy. Everybody commented what a wonderful wedding it was and what a great time they had at the reception enjoying the jazz band, we were even enjoying some Greek dancing!’

After the excitement of their big day, Peter and Wendy enjoyed some downtime at a seaside hotel in Torquay, and are planning a yachting holiday for their honeymoon.

Tracey Wright, development manager at FirstPort, which manages Brooklands, said: “I was honoured to be a guest on Wendy and Peter’s special day. They are both much loved members of the community at Brooklands and their fellow residents are delighted that they have found love and happiness with each other.

‘Independent retirement living offers a strong sense of community and allows residents to mix, meet new people, and in Wendy and Peter’s case – even find love! All of us at FirstPort, and the residents at Brooklands, wish them every happiness in their life together.’