Ref. 29765-20A BRIDEGROOM-TO-BE who has worked for Arkell's Brewery for 25 years has found the perfect place to say 'I do'.

Phil Mercer and Liz Marshall will be the first couple to marry at the Tawny Owl pub in Taw Hill the only pub in Swindon to have a licence to hold civil marriage ceremonies.

And Phil, 42, will be on familiar territory he has worked for Arkell's since he was 17 and is now their technical services manager.

Fiance Liz, 41, who works for a printing company, said: "It's an ideal location for us, what with Phil being so into his beer.

"When we first heard about the Tawny Owl offering weddings we knew it was the right place for us it all just fitted together. We're both really excited about it.

"It's a lovely pub and we both know the landlord and landlady, so the set up couldn't be better," said Liz.

Their 50 guests will be able to make the easy transition from ceremony to bar to toast the newly-weds in just a few steps when the wedding takes place on Saturday, April 24.

The couple, who live in Windbrook Meadow, Stratton, have known each other since they were youngsters when both their families lived in Kingsdown.

But they only became an item eight years ago and became engaged on Liz's 40th birthday.

Tawny Owl landlady Louisa Britton said: "It's really exciting, we can't wait for the big day. We think it's fantastic that we've got our first couple. With Phil being a brewery man it will be a great wedding to kick off with.

The pub had to have soundproof shutters fitted so that background noise from the bar does not affect the services. Now that this work has been completed they are fully operational and have had the licence since February 27.

Mrs Britton said that they also have more weddings booked for later this year as well as bookings for 2005.

The pub can cater for up to 50 guests and catering arrangements range from a five-course sit down meal to a finger buffet.

For bookings and inquiries call Louisa or Phil Britton on 01793 706770.

Emma-Kate Lidbury