Former England cricketer Ryan Sidebottom has said he feels “so lucky” his wedding to Madeleine Costigan was able to go ahead despite the coronavirus pandemic.
The couple tied the knot days before people were advised to avoid mass gatherings, although their honeymoon in Marrakech and a summer cruise were cancelled.
He told Hello! magazine: “We feel so lucky that we were able to celebrate our wedding in the way we’d planned. It was such a wonderful day.
“We really feel for the people who have had to postpone. But there is a bigger picture. People’s health is more important than anything.”
The Dancing On Ice star, 42, married events planner Costigan at Charlton Hall in Northumberland.
The ceremony was attended by Coronation Street’s Jane Danson and sportsmen Liam Plunkett, Alex Tudor, best man James Middlebrook and usher David Bates.
Sidebottom said: “It was such a special day for both of us – the most amazing day from start to finish.”
Costigan added: “The venue was inspired by Alice In Wonderland. We’re full of fun and a little bit crazy. We’re those embarrassing parents.”
Their wedding also marked Costigan’s 40th birthday.
She said: “That made it even more special. And it means Ryan will never forget our wedding anniversary.”
The reception featured a video montage of messages from his celebrity friends including Robbie Williams, Alan Shearer, Phil Tufnell, Kevin Keegan, Brian McFadden, Keith Duffy and Leigh Francis.
Sidebottom has two children with his ex-wife Kate.
Read the full article in Hello! magazine, out now.