Marriage: Councillor Farooq Ahmed and Councillor Shefali Begum tie the knot

Councillor Shefali Ahmed (nee Begum) and Councillor Farooq Ahmed

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Councillor Farooq Ahmed and Councillor Shefali Begum married at Rochdale Town Hall on Saturday 16 March.

Councillor Begum was ferried to the Town Hall in a stretch limousine, a "total surprise" said Councillor Begum.

A traditional Asian wedding was followed by a reception at Veenas Restaurant, owned by Councillor Ahmed, in Heywood.

The restaurant was dressed up as a banquet room with drapes, lighting and decorations. The guests included family and friends, Councillor Colin Lambert (leader of council) and councillor colleagues, many in traditional costume.

A massive firework display was followed by a disco until the early hours.

Speaking to Rochdale Online after the wedding, Councillor Shefali Ahmed (nee Begum) said: “It was an amazing day, really extra special. I am very happy, I feel very blessed, it was like a fairytale wedding. I couldn’t ask for more after everything we have been through, I feel complete now. I want to thank family and friends for coming and the town hall staff for all their help.”

Councillor Farooq Ahmed said: “It was supposed to be a quiet wedding. We only decided two weeks ago and intended to invite just a few family and friends and have a quiet meal in the restaurant after, but the wedding planner said he was having none of that it was a special day.”