A HANDBRIDGE firm's inaugural community barbecue event turned into an impromptu wedding reception.

Residents enjoyed a Saturday afternoon in glorious weather with live music and a barbecue at St Mary’s Centre on Overleigh Road as local independent business Chester Beer & Wine hosted its first event there.

And the barbecue welcomed a couple of special guests as Liam Nichols O’Park and his new bride Lauren arrived, having had a low-key wedding ceremony earlier.

Lauren explained: “We popped to Handbridge to celebrate with a few drinks at a local pub, but ended up following the music to the barbecue.

"What a great event! Everyone was so friendly and made us very welcome, it made our wedding extra special – we even had our first dance as a married couple while everyone cheered and clapped. Fabulous!”

As well as the barbecue, with meat sourced from local butcher Ernest Edge, the WI made tea and cakes, Handbridge Community Association sold popcorn, and local musicians entertained the crowds all day.

There was plenty for the children too, as puppeteer Cowboy Joe kept everyone entertained, along children's stalls and activities.

There are already plans for a repeat event next year.