A COUPLE who have faced months of heartache were left "delighted" after their fellow RNLI crew members surprised them on their wedding day.
Harwich RNLI relief mechanic Mike Hender and Lizzie Cutler exchanged vows at Colchester Castle.
But the couple knew they wanted the RNLI to play a big part in the special day so their crew members set about planning their surprise.
Despite the happiness of their wedding day, the couple faced some big roadblocks in recent months.
Lizzie, who is also a dedicated frontline paramedic was diagnosed with breast cancer in February.
Since March, she has undergone chemotherapy treatment, which has impacted her life in a major way.
This has meant temporarily stepping down from lifeboat service and taking a leave of absence from work.
However, despite her ongoing health situation, Lizzie had refused to let her diagnosis hinder plans to get married this year.
This also influenced the wedding day itself.
To minimise risks to Lizzie’s health, the couple needed to downscale their wedding.
Despite this, they ensured to include a tribute to the RNLI, a significant part of both of their lives.
The couple wore their yellow RNLI wellies and were surprised by members of their RNLI family at Harwich Lifeboat Station.
Mike and Lizzie’s special day included taking photographs at the boathouse on the day of the wedding.
They had expected an empty boathouse upon their arrival after the wedding ceremony.
However, they instead found the combined efforts of their fellow volunteers waiting for them.
Mike said: “We were delighted to find that our RNLI family were also determined to celebrate with us.
“They had not only dressed the ALB and obtained ceremonial oars for photos, but had also set up a small reception for us in the ILB Hall, complete with wedding cake!”
Meanwhile, Deputy Launch Authority Dave Thurston toasted the happy couple.
He said: “It is lovely to see a couple on the crew and to see them married is extra special.
“I’d like to pass on congratulations from everybody at the station, and wish them a long and happy marriage.”
Based on the Quay, Harwich, the RNLI provides a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts.
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