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Down syndrome couple defy the odds with 23 years of marital bliss

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PHOTO: Instagram/@maryanneandtommy
PHOTO: Instagram/@maryanneandtommy

A Down syndrome couple have proved doubters wrong after 23 years of marital bliss – and they’ve captured the hearts of many after their TV debut.

In 1995 Maryanne and Tommy Pilling were thought to be the first Down syndrome couple to wed – and they were hit by a wave of criticism.

The pair had dated for around 18 months before Tommy popped the question. The couple went on to tie the knot at St Mary’s Church in Shoeburyness, Essex, in July 1995.

Now 23 years later, Maryanne (46) and Tommy (60) are still going strong and a Facebook page, set up by Maryanne’s sister, Lindi Newman, which follows the couple's romance, has racked up thousands of followers.

After appearing on TV breakfast show This Morning on 13 July, the couple captured the hearts of many.

“The day Maryanne met Tommy she came home with the biggest smile on her face. She couldn't stop talking about him and asked if he could come for dinner,” Lindi said.

“They dated for about 18 months and then he approached my mom, Linda, to ask if he could propose. He had a toy ring from a vending machine.

“My mom immediately said yes but she got a lot of flak at the time for letting them get married. But she insisted it was their decision.”

Lindi says Maryanne had dreamed about a big white wedding since she was a little girl and that’s exactly what she had.

“It was a beautiful day. When they walk down the street holding hands they make a statement but in a good way.

“Some people stare, they assume people with Down syndrome and learning difficulties can’t get married.

“But we also get so many lovely messages from people who are inspired by their story. People worried about their own children or grandchildren with Down syndrome get hope from Maryanne and Tommy’s story.

She says they feel hopeful that their children could also fall in love and live happily ever after.

Maryanne says her wedding day was the best day of her life and she was shocked when Tommy proposed.

“I love my husband very much. He’s my best friend.”

The happy couple live independently, with family next door to help out when needed.

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