WHEN Jonathan and Claire Maplesden started planning the biggest day of their lives, they were determined not to leave anyone out.

So when they walked down the aisle of St Thomas and St John's Church in Radcliffe, they were joined by their favourite four-legged friend.

Bella the dog, a Jack Russell cross, donned a pink collar and bow to join the wedding party as one of the bridesmaids.

The couple, of Kenyon Street, Radcliffe, have owned Bella for three years, since she was just eight-weeks-old, and she has become an important part of the family.

One of the first things Jonathan (26) and Claire (22) asked the vicar, Reverend Chich Hewitt, was whether Bella could be part of the day, and when they got permission, it was full steam ahead.

Mr Hewitt said: "They wanted their dog to come up the aisle with the bridal procession because she is a special part of their lives.

"It was certainly an unusual request, and one I haven't had before, but I couldn't see any problems with it."

Bella became an integral part of the plans and a wedding rehearsal was held to make sure she knew exactly what to do on the day.

The couple travelled to the church in Blackburn Street in a horse and carriage for the large traditional wedding with a twist.

Unfortunately, Bella could not take part in the reception at Radcliffe Civic Suite or the honeymoon in Mexico, but is now back at home with Claire and Jonathan.

Claire, who works as a case manager for a loss adjustment company, said: "Bella's like my child and there's no way I was going to leave her out of the wedding.

"Her collar and bow matched the bridesmaids' dresses, and she looked beautiful as she walked down the aisle. Some people knew she would be there, but it was still a surprise to have a traditional white wedding with our dog as a bridesmaid. Bella was certainly the talk of the wedding and she got a lot of attention, but I didn't mind sharing the day with her. If anything, having her there made my day even better.

"It was what I wanted."