THIS lovely picture of a happy couple on their wedding is actually an international love story.

Ex-Turton High School pupil Heidi Rosewell always loved travel. She worked in Thomas Cooke in Bolton, moving to the firm's Stoke on Trent office.

Stefan Wilkens was in Stoke visiting a friend he met on holiday, from his native Rotterdam where he lived and worked.

Fate brought the couple together in a nightclub, but Stefan had to return to Rotterdam. Many letters, telephone calls and visits followed back and forth to Stoke.

When the opportunity of a secondment with Thomas Cook to Amsterdam became available, Heidi jumped at the chance.

She moved to Holland where she learned the Dutch language and way of life. But .... when it came to marrying, she decided that a traditional wedding in her home town was definitely best.

Family and friends from Holland and England joined them at Mere Hall for the wedding -- a new experience for the Dutch guests.

Heidi and Stefan had a wonderful day, with everyone mingling happily in this special celebration -- "It really was a terrific day," said dad, Mr Paul Read.

And, in the Dutch tradition, his daughter is now Mrs Heidi Wilkins Rosewell.