THE sun came out for a “beautiful day” which was 27 years in the making for Alan Wright and Allison Kelly.

The couple had been so happy in their long-term relationship, that getting married was never really a big issue.

But devastating news last month led to a different approach, after Allison was told that mesothelioma, a rare type of cancer, had developed in her lung, and was terminal.

The couple wasted no time in pressing ahead with their wedding plans, and they tied the knot at a special ceremony in Hexham on Monday, July 20.

“We just decided it was the right time to get married,” said Allison. “We love the fact that we did it, and we had a lovely time. It was a beautiful day.”

The Prudhoe couple were married at the historic Grade II listed Hexham House, and as the sun beamed down, they posed for photographs outside, in the venue’s picturesque grounds.

It was a small ceremony, with a select few attendees. Alan and Allison were joined by their 17-year-old daughter Sophie, who was bridesmaid.

Allison’s mum and stepfather, Vicky and John Riley, were also present, as were wedding photographer Claire Batey, and driver Joanne Shepherd, who donated their services free of charge.

“It was just perfect,” said Allison. “There was a lovely atmosphere, and it was just how we wanted it.”

Allison (55), is originally from the Morpeth area, and attended the town’s King Edward VI School. Prudhoe man Alan (58), attended the now former Hexham Grammar School.

They met while both working for Refuge Assurance, and after forming a relationship, went on to run their own businesses. Over the past 15 years, they have worked together on a successful window cleaning venture.

For the wedding, Allison wore a special outfit given to her by Julie Cavender, at an antenatal class 18 years ago. Daughter Sophie’s outfit was specially shipped over from Germany.

Afterwards, the wedding party joined together for afternoon tea and champagne in the couple’s newly-refurbished home garden. Alan and Allison thanked Paul from Ashley Matthews Jewellers in Hexham, who helped the couple choose their wedding rings; Vicky from the Floral Quarter in Newcastle; as well as beautician Sarah Oliver, and hairdresser Amanda Davidson, both of So Beautiful in Gosforth, who provided services free of charge. Thanks also went to Janet Taylor, of Prudhoe-based Taylor’s Cakes and Tray Bakes, who made a special chocolate cake, free of charge.