LOWTON Operatic Society stars Jenny Horridge and Mike Morris' medieval wedding went off without a hitch on Saturday.

The couple tied the knot Camelot-style at St Stephen's Church, Astley, in front of a congregation dressed for the occasion.

The olde-worlde Prayer Book ceremony, complete with minstrels, was conducted by the Rev Jack Finney, former Vicar of Astley and Leigh, who returned to his old stamping ground in the absence of Rev Chris Bracegirdle, who was on holiday.

Jenny, 26, of Acresfield, Tyldesley, and Mike, 28, of Clifton Hill Meadows, Lowton, met 11 years ago at Lowton and developed an interest in the Middle Ages after Mike played the lead in the musical 'Camelot'.

As a result they decided to arrange an antiquated ceremony.

Jenny, who works for Wigan Council, and her five bridesmaids were dressed Maid Marion style, while Mike, a printer, and his attendants were clad in tabards and chain mail. Both mums and dads - Barbara and Bob Horridge and Mary and John Morris -joined the fun: the dads lording it over the ceremony and mums in Guinevere gowns.

Jenny, who arrived at church in a horse and carriage and in front of TV cameras and many well-wishers, was met by the Tapestry of Minstrels who played in church and throughout the reception at the Lancashire Manor, East Pimbo, where the only recognition of modern times was an evening disco!

The couple left for a honeymoon in California and Hawaii and on returning home will prepare to make their dream come true by acting opposite each other as Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickock in September.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.