Wether the age gaps are socially acceptable or not in the UK or in the west in general, I don't give a monkey.
I personally reckon, that regardless of love or "desperation", as someone puts it, the union can be very successful.
And apart from one or three instances I haven't come across any other divorces yet in the Phil-Brit community.
I am not saying that it is not happening, but any stats anyone may uncover will say that the relationships are much stronger and really solid, compared to Brit-brit or Brit- whatever.