Len Cooper and Kim Bircham were astounded to be greeted by a guard of honour of tennis racquets after their marriage ceremony.

Some 20 young players whom Len coaches at Bognor Regis Lawn Tennis Club formed the ceremonial exit.

He said: "It was the most amazing sight to come out of the church and see that.

"We had no idea anything like that was going to happen, let alone in those bad weather conditions."

Kim stated: "It was magical and very emotional to see the children with their racquets."

Those who formed the guard of honour ranged from the tennis club's champion, to children seven and eight years old whom he has just started coaching.

They kept their surprise, arranged by club members, even though the wet and windy weather made for a very unseasonal August day.

Last Saturday afternoon's ceremony at St Thomas a'Becket Church came 16 years after Len and Kim met at a children's party in London after match-making by some mutual friends.

They moved to Church Way in Pagham four years ago.

Len (50) took up his coaching role at the tennis club and is also a full-time teaching assistant at Rose Green Junior School.

Kim (44) works at The Village pre-school at Pagham Village School.

Several of its young members also joined the crowd outside the church.

The couple's daughter, Kayleigh, seven, was their bridesmaid. Their maid of honour was Janet Franklin. Best man was Mark Wilson.

The ceremony was conducted by the Rev Keith Smith. It was followed by a reception for some 130 guests at the nearby Inglenook Hotel.

Len and Kim released two doves there in memory of Kim's mum, Kathleen, and brother, Kevin, who have passed away.

The newly-weds and Kayleigh will be going on honeymoon to the Greek islands at a later date.

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