A couple who first met at the age of 16 and have been together for an extraordinary 71 years are sharing their nostalgic Christmas memories from their care home in Clitheroe.
Residents Rita and Lynn Dowell, who live together at Middleshaw Hills care home in Clitheroe, grew up in an era when Christmas was shaped by wartime shortages, simple pleasures, and treasured family traditions.
Rita (92) remembers receiving just one main present, alongside a stocking containing an orange and a shiny new coin. Her favourite gift was a small black piano, which she says she ‘absolutely loved’.
Lynn (94) says his father would always slip a piece of coal into his stocking as a joke. His family also had a real 8ft Christmas tree decorated with real candles clipped onto the branches. Lynn said,
“Dad would light them from the top down. By the time he reached the bottom, the wax was dripping. Looking back, I’m surprised there weren’t more house fires—it was so dangerous thinking about it now!”
Christmas dinner in their childhood homes was modest. Turkey was rarely an option; a chicken, or simply whatever meat could be afforded, was considered a treat. Lynn added, “People didn’t have much money, so it was never a big fancy meal.”
Despite the scarcity of the era, some gifts have stayed firmly in the couple’s memories. Lynn recalls receiving a hand-turned wooden train – one of many toys made without metal during wartime.
Now settled together at Middleshaw Hills, Rita and Lynn say their wish for everyone this Christmas is simple: “To be happy. It’s all about being with family, being thoughtful, enjoying each other’s company, and playing games together.”
You can join Rita, Lynn, and the other residents at Middleshaw Hills on Friday 12th December for a carolling concert performed by Barrow URC Primary School. All are welcome from 14:00-15:00 for a festive sing-along, hot chocolate, mince pies, cookies and mulled wine.
For more information, call the friendly team on 01200 613 256, email [email protected], visit the Middleshaw Hills website, or pop into the home on Whalley Road, Barrow, Clitheroe, BB7 9GB.
Middleshaw Hills is designed to make a positive impact on everyone who lives in and visits the home. With 66 ensuite bedrooms, extensive communal spaces, and landscaped gardens, Middleshaw Hills offers an all-inclusive, ‘Crystal Clear’ care package – no hidden extras and no surprise bills.
