THIS beautiful garden is a tribute to 60 years of blossoming romance.
Ted Ford began his apprenticeship as a joiner in 1943, aged 15, under a lad just four years his senior, as older men were away fighting in the war.
But when his mentor, Cyril Kendall, hurt his thumb and couldn't alter the stairs at Nunsthorpe hospital as planned, Ted had to go in his place – and it's lucky he did.
Because this November, he will be celebrating his diamond wedding with Cynthia – a nurse he met at the hospital that day.
Ted said: "I've got a lot to thank Cyril for because if he hadn't hurt his thumb, we might never have met."
And he's been busy using the skills he learned in the trade as a joiner and builder ever since – and a few more he's picked up on the way.
The couple have lived in their home in Camargue Avenue, Waltham, for some 20 years, and Ted has turned their garden into a plant-filled paradise.
He has built six benches and four garden chairs, a summer house, a pagoda, a raised patio and a greenhouse.
There is a two-tonne compost heap, he grows a range of vegetables – including courgettes, tomatoes, beans – and has a beautiful array of flowers both at the front and back of the house.
Mr Ford has even taken up painting, so wherever there aren't any plants blooming, there are huge acrylic murals of green landscapes that he has created.
He said: "I started painting in watercolours but the acrylic is a bit more hardy. I've even pressure washed them and they're fine."
Cynthia, who is the president of the local Inner Wheel group, was busy "making scones" when we went to see Ted, but he claims she enjoys it in the summer.
When asked what the pair will be doing on their 60th anniversary, he replied: "I'll probably buy her some fish and chips."
After 70 years in the building trade, Ted has built two houses, and renovated his current house but says that he is not done yet.
He said: "I've always enjoyed developing things and I've been able to use my skills for a hobby.
"Now I am planning another mural for the garden.
"It will measure 8ft by 5ft."
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