Margate pub’s appeal to help pensioner lovebirds tie the knot in style

Andy and Sue hope to get married this summer

By Jodie Nesling

A smitten Margate pensioner is proof it’s never too late to find love after proposing to his beloved partner at the tender age of 80. 

Andy Pennington fell in love with Sue Clark at their local boozer, The Mulberry Tree and now kindhearted owner and landlord, Darren Petrucci has stepped in to make sure the loved-up pair enjoy their perfect day. 

He said: “We wanted to help. As pensioners they don’t have much money and are popular here. It’s a real community effort, we are looking to raise donations and contributions from our regulars, friends and suppliers. We want to find people who will donate flowers and a wedding cake.” 

The Dane Road pub has already offered to host the reception and supply the catering free of charge as a gift to the couple who are regulars at their karaoke night.

Andy has lived in Margate for 20 years and used to work in electronics while Sue worked in care homes. She said:  “I also lived in Herne Bay but am an original Whitstable Oyster, I came to Margate around the same time as Andy.” 

Pub landlord Darren with Sue

Despite being a little less mobile than before  the sprightly 76-year-old still loves to dance while Andy enjoys singing. “Sue still dances and she’s had two hip replacements.  I’m a singer and enjoy Michael Buble songs,” he said.

Their long friendship gradually blossomed into romance after both sadly lost their partners in 2016.  He said: “She is my queen. We get on so well because we are just as mad as each other!” The lovestruck pair became an item after a mutual friend suggested they get together seeing the chemistry between them.

Soon after the grandfather decided to pop the question, donning a dapper suit and  bending down on one knee in front of friends and family.

They now plan to get hitched this summer at Ramsgate Registry Office.

Darren added: “We really want this to be something that pulls the community together. We also have wedding planner Becky Ramu who is currently setting up a business here in Margate, she has offered to plan the wedding and give up some time for free.”

Anyone wishing to help Andy and Sue should contact Darren at The Mulberry Tree on 01843 223289

2 Comments

  1. Just to let you know that my dad Andy Pennington has much more than 3 grandchildren and great grand children. Please correct your mistake. Dee Pennington

    • Hi Dee, I didn’t personally write the article so have no notes on it. What is the correct number please?

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