Lovebirds who got engaged at Wentworth Woodhouse mark Valentine's Day by backing appeal

Tom Packer, originally from Rotherham, and his American bride Acacia live thousands of miles away in Tucson, Arizona, but have a place in their heart for Wentworth after Tom popped the question on a visit three years ago.

Their names and the date of their engagement are now etched forever in the roof of the 18th century mansion after Tom’s mum Lynne Packer (63), of Clifton, surprised the couple by joining in Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust's fundraising appeal Make Your Mark in History to sponsor a roof slate in their name.

The Packers are now urging other people to mark their love by supporting the appeal this Valentine’s Day.

Lynne said she knew it was the ideal present for the couple, who were married two years ago, adding: “They visit the house on every trip home so they can see the progress of the restoration. 

“Undoubtedly it’s their favourite place - not least because it's where Tom proposed.

“At home in Arizona they have pictures of the house on the wall.

“So many couples hold the house in their hearts and Valentine’s Day would be the perfect opportunity for them to show their support and their love for each other at the same time.”

Lynne and Wentworth Woodhouse have history, too — she was a pupil there from 1974-77 during its time as the Lady Mabel College of Physical Education and has many fond memories and friendships from those years, and later took Tom and his sister Lauren to walk through the grounds.

Former Oakwood pupil Tom (33) said Acacia had fallen instantly for the Big House after finding out about it.

“They don't really have houses with such history in America,” he said.

“We joked that when we got older we'd retire there together.”

Their shared love for Wentworth Woodhouse was cemented in 2016 when Tom proposed on the front lawn.

He recalled: “My mum helped me arrange access, the setting was perfect and Acacia said yes, and then we had the privilege of being invited into the house for a quick look around and some tea - something I’d wanted to do for as long as I remember. 

“It’s a day neither of us will ever forget.

“My mum’s gift of a slate for the roof was absolutely perfect. 

“I have loved the house from a very early age. Acacia loved it from afar, and on seeing it in person was blown away by how stunning and precious it is.

“We love the fact that we’ll be a small part of the incredible history of Wentworth Woodhouse long after we’re gone and urge everyone to seize Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to leave a tribute to their love too.”

WWPT’s Make Your Mark In History appeal asks supporters to sponsor a slate destined for the roof — with restoration of the roof above the main state rooms now under way — for a suggested minimum donation of £50. 

Sponsors can have their slate etched with messages and names, following a tradition set by craftsmen who have secretly been leaving their mark in the roof for more than 200 years. 

The appeal could raise up to £200,000 towards the estimated £200 million needed to restore the house. Visit www.wentworthwoodhouse.org.uk for more information.