But wedded bliss came early for two youngsters who celebrated their big day at the tender ages of just five and six years old.

Smartly dressed in a suit and bow tie, Edward Das (6) had a nervous wait in front of a packed church of parents and classmates to see if cold feet had got the better of bride-to-be Jessica Whitfield (5).

But she did not fail to get to Glinton Church on time and ensured the ceremony went with a swing.

It may only have been a mock ceremony, but that did not stop everyone getting dressed up like it was the real thing.

Mums and dads wore their Sunday best, and every child was dressed for the occasion.

There were even bridesmaids and a best man keeping an eye on proceedings which spilled outside into the glorious sunshine, as the bride and groom were showered with confetti.

The Rev William Burke, from Castor, took charge of the wedding and explained to the youngsters at Glinton cum Peakirk Primary School what the ceremony was about and answered questions about marriage.

After the ceremony, the Year 1 pupils headed back to school, in Rectory Lane, Glinton, near Peterborough, for a reception complete with speeches and wedding cake baked by one of the parents.

It was the fifth year the school has held the mock wedding to teach the youngsters about marriage.

Headteacher John Green said: "Our RE teacher Megan Lawson organises the wedding for our Year 1 children so they get a real experience of the ceremony and learn how it actually works.

"They really go to town with it. We get incredible support from the parents who help out and dress the children up. And a lot of the parents turn up in posh frocks and hats. It's just like the real thing."

Edward and Jessica were given the chance to take the starring roles because of their hard work in class. And with their 19 classmates and about 40 parents turning out for the event, it was a day to remember for them.

Mr Green added: "We had a reception back at the school with speeches and fizzy drinks and many of the children kept their wedding clothes on all day. I think we will keep on running it because it's such a valuable experience for the children."