As is the custom Joyce changed her name last Wednesday when she married her fiance Tony. However she only had to change from Davis to Davies and this was not the only unusual feature of this wedding.

Joyce (81) is the first patient in Ross to benefit from a new service offered by the Wye Valley NHS Trust. Instead of being in hospital at the time Joyce had planned her wedding to Tony (80) she was able to receive intravenous antibiotics at home.

This new service has been put into place by giving district nurses and community staff the right training to provide care that in the past could only be provided in the County Hospital.

Joyce told the Ross Gazette that she had enjoyed a wonderful day, she said the Pengethley Manor was absolutely marvellous and the ceremony was taken by the registrars from Ross. "Everyone was so happy."

Joyce explained that the reason she had spoken out about her treatment was becasue she wants other people to know how much easier it is to be treated at home. She said it was very stressful in hospital but at home Tony can be with me, and can cook my meals. "Care at home is simply fantastic."

And now all the excitemnt of the big day is over Joyce and Tony are making the most of married life together, at home.