AN RNLI volunteer from Burnham was met with an archway of oars as he got married just over a week ago.

Matt Edwards volunteered for the Burnham RNLI and was married to fiancé on Saturday, August 31 at East Huntspill Church.

All went well, the sun was shining, and the rain stayed away for their special day. Service over and register signed, they both left the church.

But just before the newlyweds could leave, a large group of lifeboat crew and well-wishers were arranged in two lines outside the church door with an archway of oars to negotiate.

They carried on walking to the end of the lines to congratulatory applause from lifeboat volunteers and wedding guests.

The usual confetti and wedding photographs were next, as Matt personally thanked all with warm friendly handshakes.

Matt said of the surprise event: "Both Abbey and I were completely taken aback when we walked out of the church to find my fellow crew members and friends forming a guard of honour. We had no idea it was happening. It was a lovely surprise."

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts.

The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands.

The RNLI is independent of the Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service.

Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 142,700 lives.

Burnham-on-Sea Lifeboat Operations Manager Matt Davies, said: “It was an absolute pleasure for us to perform a guard of honour for Matt & Abbey's special day.

“Matt has been a great servant to the RNLI, so this was our special thanks to him.

“Both Bride and Groom looked surprised to see us there, as the church doors opened, but a surprise I am glad to say they really appreciated.”