A COUPLE who supported each other through tough times are starting a new chapter of their life together as man and wife.

Michael and Kathryn Stones, of Shildon, County Durham, tied the knot today (Friday, April 17) after winning The Northern Echo’s Win a Wedding competition.

Friends and family gathered at Walworth Castle Hotel, near Darlington, to witness the pair exchange vows in a ceremony provided by Darlington Register Office and to celebrate with a reception at the venue.

Mrs Stones, nee Miller, looked stunning in a lace gown from Just Perfect Bridal as did bridesmaids Sophie Clarke, Amy Kitchen and Andrea Laws.

Mr Stones and his brothers Thomas and Chris, who were ushers, and best man Mark Charlton wore suits from Menswear by Just Perfect.

The journey towards their big day was not always easy as Mrs Stones, nee Miller, needed treatment to beat cancer during which time Mr Stones was hugely supportive.

She was given the all clear in July 2013 and they got engaged at Loch Lomond, in Scotland, on Valentine’s Day 2014.

Their story touched the hearts of Echo readers who voted for them to win their dream wedding.

Early years practitioner Mrs Stones, 27, said: “It has been quite a journey but we’ve come through it and everything went really well.

“It is lovely that so many family friends were able to come together to celebrate with us, people have come from all over including New York, Scotland, London and Hull to be with us which is really special.”

Mr Stones, 33, an IT technician, added: “It was a hectic six months getting ready, especially for Kathryn, but we’ve enjoyed it and are pleased to get here. It is emotional and lovely.”

Their prize also included a hair and make-up package at The Hair Sanctuary; flowers from Flowers by Nattrass; a cake from Sadie May Cakes and the day was all captured on film by Ever After Photography.

Whilst looking towards a bright future together, the bride’s thoughts also turned to her late grandfather Neville Clarke. The wedding day would have been his 75th birthday so 75 ballrooms were released after the ceremony as a tribute to him.