Marathon couple take time out to tie the knot

The London Marathon is renowned for its fascinating line-up of celebrity runners and fancy dress fundraisers, but never before has a couple opted to tie the knot halfway round.

That was until this year's race, when Garry Keates and fiancee Rachel Pitt took a quick detour during the famous 26.2-mile course to exchange vows, before going on to finish the race.

Mr Keates' stag night activities remain unknown, but they may have centred on energy drinks and pasta rather than the traditional beer and spirits as he prepared for the big day.

The 44-year-old carried his bride over the line seven hours and five minutes after the start of the race, as she threw her bouquet into the watching crowd.

Mr Keates said: "It has been the best day of my life, but I'll never do it again."

Also in the line-up for the marathon last weekend was Hampshire barman Guy Cockroft, who told the Hampshire Daily Echo last week that he was first inspired to tackle the course dressed as Dr Seuss' Cat in the Hat after coming up with the idea on a stag do.