PROVING that you're never too late to find true love, 81-year-old Carl and 74-year-old Elsie tied the knot after finding happiness together after meeting at a Newton retirement village.

The new Mr and Mrs Monks were wed at St Helens Town Hall last month, after meeting at Heald Farm Court (HFC), a Helena Homes older person’s retirement village in Newton-le-Willows, and supporting each other through bereavements.

Elsie, who was widowed in 1997, moved next door to Carl and his wife Susanne in 2015.

They soon became good neighbours and friends but, when Elsie's son died and Carl's wife passed away, they found their friendship grew, as they supported each other, offering someone to talk to and laugh with.

Elsie said: “Carl got me out of a bad place, he is much more positive and confident than me, he has a wicked sense of humour plus he was so persistent and determined to get me to go out and enjoy life again.

"It felt right, it was like we had known each other for years.”

In February 2018 Carl and Elsie finally became an official couple, but they did not drag their heels and were soon were planning their engagement and subsequent wedding after an impromptu proposal.

Carl added: “We laugh so much, at our age it’s important not to waste time. Life’s too short.”

Elsie felt a bit embarrassed about getting married at her age and was nervous about being the centre of attention, especially with Carl, who used to be a professional singer, wanting to sing ‘Welcome to my World, by Jim Reeves.

However, this idea was changed when they decided instead to play the song as the both walked down the aisle accompanied by Elsie’s four-year-old great granddaughter, Elsa and Carl’s 16-year-old granddaughter, Jena.

The wedding was followed by a reception with all their family and friends at HFC.

Elsie added: “The other residents and the HFC staff have been so wonderful, they hand made all the decorations and made it a day to remember.”

After the wedding, Carl and Elsie enjoyed five nights at a lovely hotel, near Clitheroe, enjoying excellent food and country walks.

Elsie has finally finished moving into Carl’s apartment and they are looking forward to their future together, including a Christmas re-visit to their honeymoon hotel.