65 Years After Their Engagement Was Forcibly Called Off, Couple Finally Weds

In 1951, Helen Andre and Davy Moakes were as happy as can be. The couple from Derbyshire, England was deeply in love and engaged to be married. However external pressure would tear them apart.

Andre’s parents felt Moakes’ career as an artist would be insufficient to provide for their daughter, so they pressured to have the wedding called off.

“Back in the 1950’s [being an artist] probably wasn’t considered a good career for a future son-in-law. It broke both their hearts but in those days you did as you were told,” Andre’s daughter Debbie Williams explained to BBC News.

Crushed at the end of their engagement, the two lost touch and fell out of each other’s lives. Andre, now 82, went on to marry three times, while Moakes, 86, did so twice. The duo outlived each of their combined five partners. After the end of Andre’s third marriage, Williams helped her mother contact Moakes. The reunion was a smashing success.

“They got talking and rekindled their relationship and they fell madly in love. I’m so happy for them,” said Williams.

The couple’s reignited love burned strong enough for them to marry on November 11. Both Moakes and Andre spoke of their undying devotion after the ceremony.

Andre said, “I’ve loved him all my life. I’m overjoyed. We’re together at last.”

For his part, Moakes added, “If you love someone as much as we do it never goes away.”