Quest for Dream Home Turns Tragic for Escape to the Country Couple

 

Half a decade ago, Angela and Neil embarked on a new chapter in their lives, relocating to North Wales to fulfil their ‘lifelong dream’ of settling down in the picturesque countryside. The assistance of A Place In The Sun star, Jonnie Irwin, played a crucial role in their journey as they scoured for the perfect abode.

After six months of exploration on the show, the retired engineer Neil and retired teacher Angela discovered a modern bungalow that captured their hearts. Their decision to move from Tamworth was a symbolic and ‘permanent’ celebration of their silver wedding anniversary.

Expressing their desire for a safer environment for their cats, Neil remarked in a clip from the 2018 episode, “We’d like somewhere that doesn’t encourage the cats to be run over.”

Despite encountering setbacks with the three options Jonnie presented, the couple eventually found their dream home. Tragically, Neil passed away 18 months ago, casting a shadow over the joyous chapter they had envisioned together.

Appearing on the spin-off programme “I Escaped to the Country” on Wednesday, Angela shared her emotional story with presenter Denise Nurse. She reminisced about the time before their ‘big move’ when Neil sought a ‘cozy’ and ‘homely’ place, expressing how finding their bungalow felt like a ‘dream’.

“We felt immediately at ease here. Exploring the town and discovering gems like the beautiful riverside walk made us think, ‘Oh, this is wonderful,'” Angela recounted to Denise.

“I’m grateful you both had the chance to cherish this home together,” Denise empathetically responded.

Neil and Angela had begun renovating parts of the house, but their plans were disrupted due to his declining health.

Angela recounted, “Sadly, after two and a half years here, I lost Neil. His health declined, and life became challenging. I felt unable to organise, like my mind had hit a wall.

“But we had plans for the bathroom. One day, as the door fell off the shower yet again, I thought, ‘That’s it, I’m fixing this bathroom!’ The achievement was unexpected; I didn’t believe I could manage such planning, so completing it brought immense joy.”

Reflecting on the tough period following Neil’s loss, Angela continued, “It was dreadful. Even the simplest choices, like tea or coffee, felt monumental. The struggle was real.”

“Realising the toll of isolation, I made a conscious decision to welcome a furry companion into my life. Feeling the strain of staying indoors and lacking social interaction, I welcomed Teddy into my world.

“The shift was remarkable—I’ve crossed paths with countless individuals since his arrival. Having never owned a dog in my 70 years, having been accustomed to feline company, adapting to this change was quite the experience.

“Teddy proved to be a blessing, motivating me to step out, to take walks that I would have otherwise overlooked.

“Speaking of social engagements, Denise warmly expressed, ‘Your energy is contagious and uplifting. Despite all you’ve faced, your resilience is truly commendable.’

“She further added, ‘Jonnie sends his regards, relishing the time spent and cherishing the glimpse into your settled home.’

“I Escaped to the Country can be streamed on BBC iPlayer, with the forthcoming episode scheduled for Monday, January 8 at 3 pm on BBC One.”