Bill and Melinda Gates are to divorce following 27 years of marriage. They announced that after three children and having established a successful foundation that they “no longer believe we can grow together as a couple”.

At 56 and 65 years of age, the Gates’ split forms part of a new trend in later-life divorce. According to ONS statistics, whilst the divorce rate in the UK declined for most couples, it has increased by up to 38 percent in those aged 65 and over. This is in part because people are living longer and are more healthy and active.