A BOUQUET of flowers, a little black dress, a candlelit dinner - and a self-help video to repair a rocky marriage. It is probably not what St Valentine had in mind to mend a faltering union.

A mixture of tried and tested romantic elements, mingled with a video session addressing typical marriage problems is being offered to keep Worcester spouses happy in love.

With divorce rates on an upwards trend, and more people choosing to remain single or live with their partner, figures for husband and wife teams are declining.

National Marriage Week

It is National Marriage Week, and Monday is St Valentine's Day. Members of the City Church, Ian Hilton-Turvey and his wife Phoebe, are promoting a marriage course to help couples keep it together.

"A marriage is a bit like a car - if you don't service it regularly, it is more likely to break down," said Mr Hilton-Turvey, himself happily married for 17 years.

"It is becoming increasingly challenging to maintain a married relationship, and this course is for any married couple who want to make their marriage last a lifetime," said the 43-year-old from Ombersley Road.

He explained the sessions helped couples move forward through difficult patches, or could be used to enhance an already solid relationship.

When couples arrive, they are met with a drink and sat at their table for two. The romantic meal - cooked by one of the church volunteers - is more than just a baked potato topped with flabby cheddar. Think along the lines of a well-presented chicken al-fresco, a glass of wine and chocolate brownies to follow.

At the end of the meal - which hopefully provided the opportunity to chat and 'reconnect', couples are brought together to watch a video addressing the important issues in a married couple's life.

Afterwards, there is the chance to talk privately, and cement their relationship, said Mr Hilton-Turvey.

He said couples of all ages ranging from "just-marrieds" to spouses of 25 years had attended.

And a new course - the Marriage Preparation Course - will also be set up to help spouses-to-be explore their compatibility with their chosen partner, and so avert a future breakdown, said Mr Hilton-Turvey.

For more details about the courses costing £80 for eight weeks, contact 01905 726662.