COUPLE Robin James Riley and Michelle Roe had the royal seal of approval when they got married in Bury on Saturday.

The groom’s father, Joseph Riley, wrote to the Queen to tell her the wedding was taking place on the same weekend as her Diamond Jubilee.

And the 52-year-old was surprised to receive a letter of congratulations from the Queen.

He decided not to tell his son and new daughter-in-law about the letter and instead presented it to them after their wedding at Bury Unitarian Church, in Silver Street. It was an extra special day for the family, as it was also the 28th wedding anniversary of Mr Riley and his wife, Lesley, aged 48.

And the family has strong connections to the church, as both Robin and his daughter, three-year-old Natasha, were christened there, and his grandparents are trustees.

Mr Riley, of Merton Street, Bury, said: “I thought I would write a letter to the Queen because the wedding was on the jubilee weekend, but I didn’t expect a reply. I thought she would be too busy.

“I was quite shocked when I got a letter saying the Queen wanted to wish both Robin and Michelle well.” Son Robin, aged 23, lives in Bolton Road, Radcliffe, with Michelle and his daughter Natasha, aged three, and stepsons Bradley aged seven and Joshua, aged 10.

He said: “It was a brilliant day. I cannot really put into words how happy I am.

“I did not know anything about the letter until the day, it was a lovely surprise. Not many couples get a letter from the Queen on their wedding day!”

The servicd was followed by a reception at Play Football.