A couple who were married at an Elstree hotel had some unexpected visitors on their big day a crew of firefighters from Borehamwood Fire Station.

The celebration party for Paul Pfiffner and Charlotte Wetherill's wedding was halted by a fire alarm at Edgwarebury Hotel, in Barnet Lane. More than 150 guests had to be evacuated to the car park and the fire service were called, although it turned out to be a false alarm.

The fire crew, keen to make sure the incident did not put a dampener on the proceedings, gave the bride a demonstration of a fireman's lift.

One of Charlotte's friends, Julie Venus, said the guests had just finished their meal, ahead of the evening party, when the alarm sounded.

"It was a surprise to everyone and it was a bit of twist to the day.

"It was quite amusing because all the kids were running around outside and they were very excited to see a fire engine."

Paul and Charlotte, who live in South Ruislip, embarked on a honeymoon in Mexico after their eventful day.

October 1, 2002 17:00