It was a morning of poignant emotion on BBC Breakfast on November 26, 2025, as the nation tuned in to a story that touched hearts across the UK. The popular morning show, hosted by Jon Kay and Sally Nugent, is no stranger to sharing remarkable stories, but this particular segment—centered on love, memory, and the passage of time—struck a chord with viewers and presenters alike.
As the program unfolded, regular contributors John Watson and Carol Kirkwood provided their usual updates on sports and weather. But it was a different kind of update that would linger in the minds of many that day. The focus turned to Ron and Marilyn Hill, a couple whose love story has spanned more than six decades. Married for over 60 years, the Hills once graced the polished dance floor of Blackpool Tower Ballroom with their elegant waltz. It had been 30 years since they last set foot in the iconic venue, but thanks to the determination of their granddaughter, Olivia Watts, they would return for one final dance together.
As reported by the Express and relayed on BBC Breakfast, Olivia was determined to see her grandparents experience the magic of their favorite ballroom once more, before her grandfather's dementia advanced further. Jon Kay introduced the segment with genuine warmth, remarking, "It's lovely this. Olivia Watts was determined to see her grandparents, Ron and Marilyn Hill, who have been married for more than 60 years, return to the famous dance floor before her grandad's dementia gets any worse."
Correspondent Jayne McCubbin, who accompanied the family for the special occasion, captured the gravity of the moment. "A dementia diagnosis can feel like an awfully big clock is ticking, that time is running out. But today for Ron and Marilyn, time stood still," she reflected during the pre-recorded segment. The sense of urgency and preciousness of time was palpable, as the family sought to create lasting memories in the face of a challenging diagnosis.
Ron had received his dementia diagnosis two years earlier. The journey had not been easy—both for him and for the family who watched the gradual changes. When Olivia and the family began organizing the trip back to Blackpool, they faced an unexpected setback: the Tower Ballroom was closed to visitors. The disappointment was heavy, especially for Ron, who cherished the venue as a place of joy and connection.
But hope was not lost. The family's heartfelt appeal on social media caught the attention of Blackpool's Tourism director, Kate Shane. Moved by their story, Shane arranged for the ballroom to be opened exclusively for the Hills. "[I've just had a cry]. It's just magical. I've done some amazing things in this room, from the sublime to the spectacular, but that's got to be my favourite," Shane admitted, her own emotions evident as she witnessed the reunion.
The day of the visit was filled with anticipation and a touch of apprehension. Olivia revealed that her grandfather had struggled with dancing the night before, a reminder of the toll dementia had taken on his coordination and memory. Yet, as soon as Ron entered the grand hall, something remarkable happened. The familiar surroundings seemed to awaken muscle memory and spirit alike. He took Marilyn’s hand, and together they glided across the famous sprung floor, just as they had decades earlier.
After the dance, Ron was invited to play the organ—a moment that brought even more astonishment to his family. Marilyn, reflecting on the experience, said, "It's amazing, absolutely amazing." Olivia, who had witnessed her grandfather’s recent difficulties with the piano due to dementia, was equally moved. "He's been struggling a lot with his piano recently because of his dementia. I can't believe that he's still able to do it," she shared, her voice a mix of pride and disbelief.
The emotional weight of the moment was not lost on correspondent Jayne McCubbin. As she watched the couple dance, tears welled up. "You've got me going now. It's fabulous, isn't it? I'm so proud," she admitted, her candor resonating with viewers who understood the bittersweet beauty of the occasion.
Throughout the segment, the underlying reality of dementia was never far from anyone's mind. As McCubbin noted, the diagnosis can feel like a ticking clock, a relentless reminder that time is both precious and fleeting. For Ron and Marilyn, the day in Blackpool was a respite—a chance to reclaim a sense of normalcy, if only for a few hours, and to celebrate a love story that has weathered many storms.
The story, which aired on BBC One at 6am as part of the daily broadcast, quickly gained traction online. Viewers expressed admiration for the family’s devotion and the efforts of everyone involved, from Olivia’s tireless advocacy to Kate Shane’s compassionate intervention. The segment also served as an important reminder of the realities faced by those living with dementia and their families, highlighting the value of empathy, community, and small acts of kindness.
According to the NHS and Dementia UK, dementia affects millions of people across the UK, with diagnoses often bringing profound changes not only for the individual but for their loved ones. The Hills’ story is emblematic of the everyday challenges and small victories that define life with dementia. It also underscores the importance of honoring the wishes and dignity of those living with memory loss, finding ways—big and small—to make moments count.
The Hill family’s journey back to the Blackpool Tower Ballroom was more than a nostalgic trip; it was a testament to resilience, love, and the enduring power of music and dance. For Ron and Marilyn, the final waltz was a gift—one that will be cherished by the family for years to come, and one that offered inspiration to countless viewers across the country.
As the credits rolled on that Wednesday morning’s broadcast, there was a sense that something truly special had taken place. Not every news story brings tears to the eyes of seasoned broadcasters, but this one did—and for good reason. The Hills’ dance was a reminder that even as time marches on, and memories fade, love can still find its way onto the dance floor.
