Sussex artist Philip Dunn to marry 'lockdown love' today

Philip Dunn was devastated when his wife of almost 35 years, Carole-Anne White, took her own life in 2013 after many years of battling severe depression.

At the time, Philip said he was finding it “almost impossible” to carry on after his loss.

The 75-year-old artist, who is well known for his vibrant paintings of Brighton seafront and colourful striped deckchairs, moved out of the city to Ditchling in 2010.

Artist Philip Dunn

Since Carole’s death Philip has been running his Window Gallery shop and picture-framing business on his own, and “almost lost the will to paint”.

For the past seven years he has tried to find love without success, with only his faithful dachsund, Arty, as his companion.

But one week before the lockdown in March, that all changed.

He met Veryan Greenwood from Brighton online and the pair hit it off immediately on a date.

A week later they decided to lock down together at Philip’s Ditchling home, and love blossomed.

Philip and Veryan will tie the knot today at Southover Grange in Lewes – nine months after meeting for the first time.

Veryan and Philip celebrating his father George's 103rd birthday earlier this year

Veryan, 61, said: “It was quite weird as we were both widowed in different ways and we both spent seven years on our own.

"I had almost cancelled my membership to the dating website before I met Philip. When lockdown was due we thought, sod it, let’s give it a go, and I moved in.”

Exactly three weeks after they met, Veryan proposed to Philip and he accepted.

The pair are excited to marry today after the November lockdown put their initial date on hold.

Philip has been inspired to paint again

Philip said: “I’m so happy to have found my lockdown love.

"I’ve started to paint again and business is booming. All is well with my world.”

The Samaritans charity is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to offer emotional support to anyone struggling to cope.

Their free support line is on 116 123.