A COUPLE demonstrated that absence makes the heart grow fonder when they tied the knot this week.

Ashley, 33, and Wei-Kan Cheung, 56, married on Thursday at The Priestley Suite in Bradford City Hall and held their reception at the Staveley Birkleas care home in Shipley, where they live.

The new Mr and Mrs Cheung both have cerebral palsy and other medical conditions which means they use wheelchairs – but nothing, including distance, stopped their love from growing.

Ashley Cheung said she wanted to marry Wei-Kan "because he is so kind". She said she enjoyed "everything" about her big day.

The happy coupleThe happy couple (Image: Newsquest)

They met at the Whetley Hill Resource Centre. Ashley moved to Staveley Birkleas in May 2021, and then Wei-Kan was able to move there in December 2023.

"During the time apart they kept in touch constantly and Wei-Kan made regular visits to Staveley to see Ashley, before his move into the home," said a care home spokesperson. 

“The time apart made their love grow for each other even more.

“It’s a lovely love story and it shows that people with disabilities who require around-the-clock care can still live a normal life and find love like everyone else.” 

The couple celebrate their wedding receptionThe couple celebrate their wedding reception (Image: Newsquest)

It was while on a visit to see Ashley in June last year that Wei-Kan proposed to Ashley,” said the spokesperson.

“She was so surprised, as she was not expecting it or had any inkling that he would propose, but straight away said yes.”

The reception was attended by Mr and Mrs Cheung’s close friends and family. It was followed by a huge party for all the other residents, staff and management at Staveley, featuring a DJ, disco and barbecue.

Mrs Cheung’s surgeon and social worker were among the guests.