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Romance isn’t dead for the over 50s as one in 14 have renewed their wedding vows or are considering doing so, according to research by Saga*.


The poll of more than 8,000 over 50s shows that even after years of marriage people still want another chance to declare their love for their significant other in front of their family and friends. On average those renewing their vows have been married almost 30 years, while four out of ten over 50s say they are considering renewing their wedding vows after more than 40 years of marriage.


Of those who have renewed their vows or are thinking of doing so the majority are retired suggesting they are using their extra time to organise a wedding.


The over 50s spend around £1,000 on average reaffirming their love for each other in front of their family and friends. Plus the added expense of a second honeymoon.


It appears the over 50s only invite their nearest and dearest to watch them re-tie the knot. On average, they invite around 25 people to their vow renewal whereas more than 60 people witnessed them get married the first time round.


People in the West Midlands and East Anglia appear to be the most romantic as almost one in ten over 50s in each of these regions have renewed their wedding vows or are considering doing so. However, the Scots are the least likely to want to re-live their special day after years of marriage.


When it comes to renewing their wedding vows the over 50s opt to do it in the UK instead of jetting off abroad.


Paul Green, director of communications at Saga, commented: “Renewing your wedding vows can be a great way to celebrate your marriage and give you a chance to relive your special day with children and grandchildren; and a great excuse for a party and a romantic break a deux.


“The over 50s are clearly romantics at heart and I’m sure lots will be celebrating Valentine’s Day this year, whether that’s a romantic weekend away or taking their partner out for a nice meal.”

Ends

Notes to Editors
*Populus interviewed 8,012 people aged 50 over, online between 19th and 26th January 2016. Populus is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules.