After 28 years of love, Tony and Lyn had their relationship blessed at Bolton Hospice last week.

The two were supposed to get married at the end of September but, when Tony was admitted as an inpatient, they had to cancel.  Instead, they invited their loved ones to celebrate at the hospice, also taking the opportunity to celebrate Tony's birthday in one big party.

Tony and Lyn were blessed in the company of family, friends, hospice staff and even puppy 'Paddy'.

"We first spoke 28 years ago, and we've not stopped talking since.

We met at a Motown night in Bolton and Tony promised to visit my bakery the following week.  That was until he forgot the name of the shop! It didn't stop him though - he visited every bakery until he found me and asked me to go and see Whitney Houston with him.

Music has always been a big part of Tony's life.  He used to sort all the music for Bolton Irish Club, in fact, he managed to get Nathan Carter to play there.

We've got a big family - three children and six grandchildren between us.  We all get on so well.  We have a static caravan between the Lake District and Northumberland where we’ve made some great memories. 

I ran and got the ring from town and here we are!  I've always thought of the hospice as a place for dying but today it's been about living". - Lyn

Staff decorated the family lounge area with balloons, lights and photos and guests enjoyed an afternoon of music, speeches and gifts.  Tony also took the chance to celebrate the other love of his life... Man City!

With only 12 hours notice Greenhalgh's made and donated the perfect cake which family and friends enjoyed alongside a buffet.

Lyn explained that the event had given them “wonderful memories to hold on to forever.”

You can watch the big day here