NEWLYWEDS enjoyed the ceremony of their dreams with an outdoor wedding surrounded by their loved ones.

47-year-old Andy Butler and 38-year-old Clare Butler tied their knot on October 18.

The couple, who live near Ulverston, work with young people in the local community.

After 12 years of being together, Andy took Clare for an afternoon tea at Henrock at Linthwaite House Hotel in Bowness the day after her birthday.

"Upon stumbling across the swing that overlooks Windermere we took in the views before he dropped to one knee to propose just as the rain started tumbling down and I said yes," said Clare.

On their 13th anniversary, the pair got married in the 'stunning' Italian garden of Holesfoot in Penrith, where they achieved the dream of having an outdoor wedding.

Mrs Butler said: "We were surrounded by our very nearest and dearest, only 25 guests, all of whom hold a very special place in our hearts and combined histories.

"We are a crazy blended family and wanted our day to very much reflect the official blending of this. 

"Our best man Archie, chief bridesmaid Lilia and our official witnesses were Andy's older children and it meant the world to us that they signed our wedding certificate.

"Our page boy and bridesmaid were our youngest two, eight-year-old Bronte and seven-year-old Fife, along with my niece as our flower girl."

The bride walked down the aisle accompanied by her dad to You'll Never Walk Alone.

Mrs Butler said: "The ceremony was traditional. The registrars were so encouraging and ensured everything ran smoothly, settling any nerves and emotions perfectly. 

"After our vows, we returned to the house for a simply amazing meal, the best Sunday Lunch ever, surrounded by the most elegantly decorated room.

"We enjoyed an amazing three courses, finished with chef Stuart’s signature Sticky Toffee Pudding and all served up by his amazing wife Stacey."

After the speeches and champagne toasts, the guests retired to their rooms for a quick costume change to celebrate their 13 years together.

Mrs Butler said: "We all enjoyed an evening of Murder at Mystery Manor by Highly Suspect.

"Solving the riddles and puzzles and making the most of Holesfoot's unique rooms, the actors guided us through an evening of laughter, accents, problem-solving and teamwork expertly, which rounded off our special day perfectly."

The pair have just returned from their honeymoon in San Sebastián.

"There we fell utterly in love with the sun, sand, sea, football and theme parks but more importantly, the pintxos and basque cheesecake of San Sebastián and where we plan to take the kids next year," concluded Clare.