Guests say sip, sip hooray to couple in first pub wedding

Mark and Sue Colver were married in front of 76 guests in a novel ceremony at the Cock & Bull.

Mr Colver, 63, said he and his wife, 60, chose the pub because of great memories they had made there as patrons over many years.

‘We’ve had some of our favourite nights there, whether it be Irish nights, meat draws or watching the rugby with friends,’ he said.

‘Neither of us wanted a church wedding as we have both been divorced.

‘We have adult children who are already married, so we thought it was about time we got round to doing it. We’re thankful to the Cock & Bull for letting us have it there.

‘I think everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves on the day. Tables, chairs, drinks – what more do you need really? The more relaxed atmosphere definitely suited the occasion.’

The marriage was conducted by Caryn Byrne, a celebrant at White Dove.

‘In 2021 the law was amended so that now you can get married pretty much anywhere. Mark and Sue just had to apply for a licence from the Greffe, which was granted,’ said Mrs Byrne.

It was the first wedding she had conducted in a pub and she enjoyed the unique feel of the day.

‘We pride ourselves on being as accommodating as possible in terms of venues,’ she said.

‘It was a lovely day. Everybody was respectful throughout the service and I was very happy to be a part of it.’

The couple met 14 years ago through the Hash House Harriers social running club and have lived together for most of the time since then.

Mr Colver proposed on the Castle breakwater last August.

‘I’m from the UK originally, but Sue is Guernsey born and bred, so when the opportunity arose to come and live and work on the island in 2020 it was a no-brainer as we love the place,’ he said.

Mr and Mrs Colver are retired, having previously worked as a tax director and in human resources respectively.

After their wedding they left for a holiday in Alderney.

This summer they will enjoy a longer honeymoon in Alaska and Vancouver.