Like any couple on their wedding day, Alfie and Jessica rose early and were assisted by their parents. From the clothes generously donated by a renowned local menswear shop, to the purple Mini which transported the bride to the church and the 'beautiful' ceremony, everything was just right.

But while some couples may invite an inspirational teacher from their childhood to their ceremony, Alfie and Jessica had a church full of them, and their adoring families. For on Thursday, October 10, at 1 pm, this couple (both aged six years) walked down the aisle after weeks of planning for their mock wedding.

Soon after the new school year began, the Vicar of Pembroke Dock, Rev. Nicky Skipworth, was approached by Liz Knights, of Class 2K, who explained that the children would be doing a project about weddings and could they have the service in St. Patrick's.

Nicky promised the event would be as true to life as possible. As a regular and enthusiastic visitor to the school, Nicky took the children through most of the preparations for a church wedding, emphasising values such as unity, understanding and commitment along the way.

The big day dawned and, as custom might dictate, Jessica arrived a little late. The ceremony was such a joy for all concerned; with real vows of marriage, Bible readings, well-known songs with backing from the school choir and the giving and receiving of two golden rings. The couple completed their 'marriage' by giving one another a longer hug than expected and signing their very own marriage certificate. Everyone concerned had worked really hard to pull it all together.

The school hall was transformed into a wonderful reception venue where a delicious buffet was served, washed down by finest orange squash; there was even a wedding cake for Alfie and Jessica to cut together, and a first dance.

Nicky said: "My favourite memory of the day, apart from the moment when I pronounced Alfie and Jessica 'married', was being offered a very welcome cuppa by Liz during the buffet and later being asked to dance by a very nice young man. The children do us all proud; they are polite, enthusiastic and focused - they are such a credit to the school and our community. I hope they will choose St. Patrick's Church for their very own real wedding ceremony someday. But, for now, here's to next year's couple!"

Teacher, Liz Knights and all the other teachers who had worked closely with Nicky on the project, said: "What a fabulous day we had! This was the coming together of weeks of planning and didn't it show! Thank you so much to absolutely everyone who helped in anyway, and to the families who supported the project. This was a real educational experience for the children; we are sure it will leave them with a greater understanding of why people choose to commit to each other and how they can be married in a special ceremony."