Civil Ceremony for local couple

Lee and Craig '“ who works as a civil servant for the Department of Work & Pensions in Bexhill- met nine years ago at a trade union conference in Blackpool.

Craig was born and raised in Newcastle upon Tyne whilst Lee was born in Crawley. The couple moved to St Leonards on Sea approximately two years ago.

Like Craig, Lee has spent the past fifteen years working for the DWP and is based in London.

Lee was awarded the MBE in June this year for 'Public and Voluntary Service', having been recognised both for his public service work and for his dedication to raising funds for charity.

Lee has undertaken physically challenging endeavours for his charitable fundraising and he said Craig has been a supportive and understanding partner in his efforts to help others.

Lee said: "I have run several half-marathons (including Hastings), jumped out of an aeroplane at thirteen thousand feet and climbed mountains both in the UK and in the Himalayas '“ all in the name of charity, and poor Craig has had to put up with it all!"

After the happy couple tied the knot at Rye town hall a reception was held at Azur, (Marina Pavilion) St Leonards on Sea; two venues which Lee said they believe gave their guests a taste of why they enjoy living in Sussex.

Lee said: "It was a great honour to see family and friends who had travelled from across the country to be with us. We thought that two such lovely venues would give people a glimpse of what we love so much about living here on the Sussex coast."