SOCCER stars travelled from across the country for the wedding of Blackburn Rovers ace Jeff Kenna.

The footballer married beauty salon owner Jackie Graham at St Helen's Church in Waddington.

He was given time off from his duties as a member of the Ireland squad when his team took on Mexico in a pre-World Cup friendly in his home city of Dublin to tie the knot.

Former team mates from Southampton FC attended the wedding, as well colleagues from Blackburn Rovers.

The couple were married by Waddington vicar Alan Bailey, and a marquee reception was held in the grounds of their Samlesbury home.

The reception, which included a huge firework display, was described as a "fantastic affair," by friend and former Rovers player Vince O'Keefe.

"Jeff came up North and found love with a lovely Northern lass. He has a great future as a footballer and I wish the couple every happiness," he said.

The bride, who has family connections in Waddington, runs the the A Nu U beauty salon in Whalley Road, Clitheroe.

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