AN elderly American couple are so in love with a swimming pool in the U.K. that they have been holidaying there every year for the past 44 years.

    Former GI Bill Donald, 91, and his 87-year-old wife Thelma have returned to Plymouth, Devon, every year since 1972 so they can enjoy the local lido.

    They first discovered the outdoor pool during D-Day preparations and they now make the trip from their home in Boston, Massachusetts, for their annual three-week pilgrimage.

    And having just completed their 44th trip, the couple have no intention of stopping.

    Thelma, who was born in Plymouth, said, “Every year, we return to Tinside and I swim every day for three weeks straight while Bill sits and reads.

    “We have made many friends here over the past few years.

    “We come as it is the most beautiful salt water pool in the world. My heart is always here. I just love it.

    “I dream about it all the time. You have the beautiful countryside in the background and the beautiful sea here. It’s like heaven on earth.

    “When I left the city was completely destroyed by German bombs, now it’s just beautiful.”

    Bill added, “We just love all of this. We always come back to the Hoe and Tinside because it brings back so many memories.

    “To us this is the best place in the world. Everyone’s so friendly and helpful, you just can’t fault it.”

    Thelma and Bill met in the city in 1943 during D-Day preparations and the pair later married and raised a family in America.

    Having raised their children, the couple decided to return to the place they first met — and have been coming back ever since.

    Their long-standing association with the lido was recognized by staff during celebrations to mark its 80th anniversary over the weekend.

    Despite the couple missing the event by just a matter of days, head lifeguard Harry Roberts paid tribute to them.

    He said, “We had people from all over the place come along to enjoy this weekend. The penny entry and the live band were a big hit, and we had more than 400 people turn up.

    “It was a fantastic way to end the season.”(SD-Agencies)