Policemen had to hold back the crowds as the winner of several beauty contests, Gina Hickey, wed Thomas Heslop at St Mark’s Church in Dalston.

Gina, 16, daughter of business couple Mr and Mrs Terence Hickey, told a Gazette reporter: “I wanted to be a model till I met Tommy, then I just wanted to be married to him.”

Well-wishers assembled outside the home of the bride’s parents throughout the whole day – some of them strangers who had read about the wedding.

Mr Hickey, who had an upholstery business, said he was “overwhelmed” by their kindness.

“Not only business associates, but many others sent their best wishes,” he said.

“I should like them to know that we really appreciate it.”

Gina’s mother, a dressmaker, had stitched her gown with 12 yards of white silver brocade with a pattern of white roses.

The newlyweds went on honeymoon to Jersey.