VALENTINE'S day was made extra special for Grace Gibbons who enjoyed her first day as the Bury Times Group Bride of the Year.

The shocked 25-year-old sales executive was overcome with tears when she won the sought-after title at a bridal extravaganza, staged by the Bury Times Newspaper Group, at the Longfield Suite in Prestwich on Sunday (Feb 13).

Grace who lives with her fiance, Mr Richard Buckley, at their home in Northfields, Radcliffe, said she was still coming down from the high days, after she was picked out of eight finalists by Bury Times readers.

"I really could not believe it," said Grace. "I was thrilled that I had made it to the final. I really did not expect to win as the competition was tough. When they called my name out I was in shock."

Grace and her fiance have planned a July wedding at St Bernadette's RC Church in Whitefield, three years after they met in a Bolton pub. And the happy couple say they are over the moon with their fabulous prizes. Not only did Grace win the prestigious title but carried off a £500 voucher towards a wedding dress from Bridal Couture Italia in Bury, free hire of bridegroom's suit from John Francis Menswear, a framed portrait from Martin Stembridge Photography, a £100 donation from Cheerz towards balloon decorations, free hire of a wedding tiara from Cant Bridal Headdresses, a £250 voucher towards a wedding cake from Slatterys, free hire of a wedding car from Classic Daimler, a year's free membership for the happy couple at Images Gym, a complementary bridal suite for one night at the Bolholt Country Hotel, manicure at Beyond Beauty Nail Creation, a bridal bouquet from Alexander's Floral Designers, bride's hen party courtesy of Chicago Rock Cafe, bridal make over from Nick Bailey, free hire of a 1958 Buick car from Celebrity Cars and a £100 holiday voucher from Holiday Essentials.

All eight finalists received flowers and a bottle of champagne courtesy of the Bury Times Newspaper Group and Lancashire Health and Racquet Club.

"We have been very disorganised about the wedding so winning this has been fantastic. It really takes the pressure off us and we can start to enjoy all the preparations rather than worry things," said Grace.

"The prizes are fabulous and it really will make the wedding extra special. I would like to than everyone who voted for me for making it all happen."

Before the nail-biting final exhibitors were on hand to offer advice to blushing brides-to-be and their family on everything from wedding gowns to wedding finance.

Organiser, Mrs Sue Sanderson, Bury Times special publications supervisor, was delighted with the success of the event.

"Everyone who took part worked very hard to make it a success. It was great fun and a thoroughly enjoyable day for all who attended."

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