A care home employee popped in to work for a visit on her wedding day so she could celebrate with residents who were unable to attend.

Sarah Thomas, an events co-ordinator at Finney House in Preston, went straight to the care home with her new husband, truck driver Dave Thomas, after the ceremony on Saturday so residents could see her in her wedding dress.

But when she arrived she found a full-scale, Covid-safe wedding party had been planned by her colleagues, Jen Stutter and Lisa Kimble, with decorations, Buck’s fizz and a cake.

“We were both shocked and amazed,” said Mrs Thomas. “I couldn’t believe the amount of trouble everyone had gone to.

“One of our residents cried tears of joy when she saw me.”

Residents at Finney House made their own fascinators for the occasion, which also featured afternoon tea and gifts for the happy couple.

Ms Stutter said: “Sarah’s not just a colleague, she’s a good friend and we wanted to make the day special for her.

“Her wedding has been cancelled a couple of times due to Covid and residents have showed a lot of interest, counting down the days and sharing in her excitement.

“So we felt it appropriate to share the day with them and spoil Sarah at the same time.”

The gesture was appreciated by the bride, who said she had a “magical day to remember”.

“I would have loved to have had them all at my wedding ceremony, but this really was the next best thing,” she added.