22-year-old girl takes lonely pensioner on first dinner 'date' in 55 years
So thoughtful ❤️
If you're after a heartwarming story today, you've come to the right place.
In August 2006, Eddie Holmes, 86, lost his wife after 45 years of marriage. The former painter and decorator soon after moved into sheltered housing, after giving up his house and garden.
Since his daughter and two grandchildren now live in Australia, Eddie now spends most of his days alone, intercepted by the odd visit to his local Sainsbury's in Leeds.
He's got to know some of the staff there, including 22-year-old Ellie Walker, who decided one day she'd try and cheer Eddie up a bit.
Late last year, Ellie invited Eddie out for a 'dinner date', after finding out that he'd be alone at Christmas. And now, Ellie has shared her story.
"Last night I had the privilege of going on a dinner date with a very special gentleman," she said.
When Eddie turned up with a bunch of flowers, wearing his smartest suit, Ellie said she was reduced to tears.
"We all love Edwin. He has no immediate family and he mentioned a few weeks ago that he would be spending Christmas alone with a frozen ready meal.
"The thought of him being on his own at such a special time breaks my heart and if I could take him home with me I would.
"So last night I took Edwin for dinner. He came in all dressed up and presented me with flowers. Such a lovely night with a lovely man.
"I'm so grateful to have met you, Edwin. Thank you for making my life brighter."
Eddie said: "The dinner made me very happy as it was unexpected and I had very pleasant company."
When asked why he decided to dress up so much for the occasion, he said it was because it was his first 'date' for about 55 years.
"I got the flowers because I wasn't going to go empty handed," Eddie said.
What a gentleman! Ellie has described Eddie as her 'favourite customer' at Sainsbury's.