Burnley couple marry in one of first weddings as lockdown is lifted

The couple, who have two sons Theo and Denis, fulfilled their long-held dream of saying "I do" at a church in Preston, in front of five guests after the Government's updated coronavirus guidelines came into force yesterday (Saturday).

It was a day to remember for the newlyweds who also took the opportunity to have their four-month-old son, Denis, christened.

Originally, the couple were due to get married on April 25th, however, due to the coronavirus pandemic, they had to postpone their big day.

As of yesterday, weddings or civil partnerships with up to 30 guests can take place. They had been banned under almost all circumstances since lockdown began on March 23rd.

There must be space to socially distance and venues are only allowed to reopen if they can do so safely. Ceremonies should be kept as short as possible and no food or drink should be consumed unless it is deemed essential. It is strongly advised by the Government receptions do not take place afterwards, with only small celebrations of six people taking place outside or two households inside.

Andrei and Diana's friends, Johnathan and Simona Monaghan, who are the godparents of Denis and also acted as witnesses for the wedding, said: "It was a very nice ceremony. "Unfortunately, the couple were not allowed to book anything for the reception, so we had to put a tent in the front garden of their house and enjoy a meal. This wedding gives people hope and a glimpse that things are slowing starting to get back to normal."