RESIDENTS at a Chard nursing home marked two massive occasions in less than a week - including a special celebration which saw an owl speeding through the care centre.

The bird blitzed over a crowd as part a unique wedding vow renewal by Geoff and Gwen Manning.

Gwen lives at Oak Lodge Care Home, in Lordsleaze Lane, and has been married to Geoff for three decades.

Around 60 family and friends turned out for the special ceremony.

Geoff, 86, and Gwen, 87, renewed their vows before a performance of Amazing Grace, and then the spectacular flight.

The crowd hushed as a bird handler brought the barn owl in with Geoff and Gwen’s rings.

It took to the air and flew down the aisle, nestling on Geoff’s arm.

On its return journey, the barn owl took a detour, barely skimming over the heads of the Manning’s nearest and dearest.

Afterwards, Geoff said: “It was absolutely incredible. The whole day has been marvellous.”

The loving couple first met in Lyme Regis when Geoff was 15 and he pushed Gwen’s bike over the hill for her.

However, as they grew up they grew apart and married other people. It wasn’t until years later, when they were both single again, that Geoff and Gwen reunited.

They married on May 21, 1988, and celebrated their 31st anniversary in the summer.

Geoff added: “We live separately now, and we just wanted to keep that bond together.

“It makes me so happy to see her happy.”

Just a week before the Mannings’ celebration, another Oak Lodge resident marked an incredible milestone.

Ethel Brooker turned 100, and celebrated with a card from the queen.

The centenarian, who is originally from Buckinghamshire, has lived in Chard for four years.

Ethel credited her long life to her great genes, with her mum living until she was 102.