IT'S thought a Kent couple are to become the first in the country to get married in a lighthouse.

Anne Robertson and Shane How, from Romney Marsh, will make their vows on the second floor of Dungeness Old Lighthouse on Saturday.

The couple had planned to wed at Ashford register office but changed their minds when they heard they could marry in the lighthouse.

Family and friends were surprised at the news, and some even thought the couple were joking.

The ceremony will be conducted half way up the 143ft historic structure. About 30 guests will join them before they sign the register and climb to the top for photos.

It’s a perfect venue for Anne and Shane, who moved to Williamson Road, Lydd-on-Sea, six months ago and can see the lighthouse from their garden.

HGV driver Shane, 41, said: “I used to come down here on holidays when I was a kid and have been up the lighthouse a couple of times, but Anne has never been in a lighthouse before.

“It just seemed the right place and we want to remember it as something really special. Every time we see it we will remember our wedding day.”

The lighthouse, which celebrated its centenary in March 2004, will be decorated on the day with cream and burgundy flowers and silk bows to match the bride’s outfit.

Anne, 42, who works at the staff restaurant in Waitrose, Hythe, added: “When we were told about it we were really excited because it will be the first marriage there. It is really novel and that makes it even more special.”

Instead of the traditional Wedding March, Anne will be escorted up the steps by her brother to the The Proclaimers’ Let’s Get Married, and will sign the register to Annie’s Song.

After the ceremony the couple will exit to The Mavericks’ Just Want to Dance the Night Away, in memory of Anne’s mother who died a year ago.

Two registrars will be in attendance on the couple’s big day before the wedding party enjoy a celebratory glass of wine at the foot of the lighthouse before heading to the reception which is being held at the Rose and Crown in Old Romney.

Anne said: “We wanted everyone around us, which is why we decided not to get married at the top, as not many people could be fitted in. I’ll just have to watch my skirt as I go up the steps."

“People do think it’s novel but there are not many places to get married in this area if you don’t want a traditional wedding and you’re not religious,” she added.

Anne and Shane will honeymoon in Las Vegas and San Francisco in April.