Irish fan Rebecca Seery and England supporter Harry Johnston tied the knot at Harry’s parents’ house in Wykey, Shropshire – but it was the other side of the world where their amazing story began.
They met in Australia at the third Test in 2013, as Warren Gatland, the Lions coach, masterminded a spectacular victory to seal a series triumph for the Lions.
Harry said: “We were in with the Aussie fans and sitting next to me was a pretty Irish girl who I got chatting to – and we kept talking. We were just united in happiness as the Lions kept on scoring tries.”
Rebecca added: “It was also an absolutely freezing night in Sydney. I kept talking about how I was going to marry Owen Farrell We hugged each other once the final whistle went, I don’t know why but we did.
Three years later, Gatland’s message was played during the best man’s speech at Harry and Rebecca’s wedding reception – to the complete surprise of the couple.
Their wedding day also saw another surprise as BIL the Lion – the official mascot of the Lions – made an appearance and posed for photos with the guests.
Their love of the Lions could play a key part to a happy marriage for the rugby-mad pair, who are hoping to make the Tour to New Zealand in 2017.
