IT'S never too late to find that special someone.

And that's all too true for 87-year-old Ron Rothery and his 91-years-young wife Dorothy after they tied the knot at the weekend.

The happy couple walked down the aisle before five generations of their family in what may be one of the oldest marriages in British history.

And what makes it even more amazing is that not only have the bride and groom been married before - both for 62-years - but the sprightly newlyweds are heading off on a 5,600-mile trip to South Africa for their honeymoon.

The pair made their vows in the historic setting of St Leonard's Church, Bursledon on Saturday with their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and even a great-great-grandchild looking on.

Proud groom Ron said: "I'm very happy. It's been a great day and I've been really looking forward to it."

The youngest member of the congregation was seven-month-old great-great-grandson Ethan.

"He's been trying to eat everything because he's teething, and he even tried joining in with the singing," said his mum, and great granddaughter of the bride, Gemma Buck.

The couple, who are both widowed, have been good friends for seven years after meeting at King's Community Church in Hedge End.

Janet Rowe, daughter of the bride, said: "They've known each other for years, both have always lived in Southampton, and they decided to get married a few months ago."

"We're all very pleased because they are both so happy and it's nice they are going to be together."

A small, quiet setting steeped in 800 years of Hampshire history, St Leonard's Church was the ideal place for the couple to bring close friends and family for the wedding - especially as they are now moving to the village.

Dorothy said: "It was a lovely service and it was nice to see so many family members.

"We are both now looking forward to the honeymoon in Cape Town, and to spending time with my daughter out there and my other grandchildren."

The church Curate John Pawson, who conducted the ceremony, said it was the oldest wedding couple he knew of.

"I find it very special to be here today, not just because of their age but also because of their faith."

Friends and family of all ages who gathered in the small church said it was both 'remarkable' and 'inspirational' that they were getting married and choosing to live together in their retirement years.

Hazel Cooke, daughter of the groom, said: "It's been a wonderful day, and what is really amazing is that both of them have been happily married before, each for 62 years.

"It's really good that they're finding it again for a second time and it just shows you are never too old to find happiness."

Mrs Cooke added: "It really does give people a lot of hope."