The most romantic day of the year

Valentine’s Day - 14 February

February is about to be showered in a coating of red and pink and all things romance as people across the borough prepare to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

Valentine’s Day is observed on 14 February every year and is celebrated by many countries around the world. The day was first associated with romantic love in the high middle ages when the tradition of courtly love flourished.

By the 18th century the day turned into one where lovers could express their love for each other by presenting gifts, flowers, confectionary and cards to one another.

Nicknamed the most romantic day of the year, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner which means shops across the borough are preparing for an influx of people heading in to buy romantic gifts for their significant other.

Whether you are in a new relationship or you have been with your other half for longer than you can remember, Valentine’s Day is that time of year when you can show each other how much you truly care.

Chocolates, teddy bears, flowers and romantic cards will be on the agenda for this special day.

Lola Ashleigh, a new florist in Rochdale can provide special bouquets and flowers for Valentine’s Day. Staff at Lola Ashleigh are offering special Valentine’s bouquets, hand tied bouquets and a selection of sweets.

For those who want to publicly show their affections for one another, restaurants and pubs in Rochdale are offering great opportunities for a romantic meal for two.

Richard Stansfield, Sales and Marketing Executive of The Deckers Group said: “Valentine’s night is a very successful night for our restaurants. We do have to change our restaurants because a lot of them have larger tables which don’t suit two people so in that way it can also be challenging.”

The Royal Toby and The Fallen Angels will be offering a set menu for diners on Valentines Day with the option of staying at the hotel for just £50 per couple.

Richard added: “Valentine’s has become one of our key nights of the year now.”

The Moorcock Inn in Littleborough is offering couples who chose to dine with them a special Valentine’s dinner for £20 per head. That includes a complementary bottle of house wine per couple.

Some couples may like to mark Valentine’s Day with a special photograph as a reminder of the day. Signature Photography does home visits to provide high quality photography to clients.

Ian Hancock of Signature Photography said: “We do whatever people want really. We do home visits and can go out parties to do the photography.”

With the most romantic day of the year just days away, however you choose to spend it, make sure it is filled with romance, love and most of all gifts.