The day grumpy owl left the best man in a f lap

IT looked like being the perfect wed- ding. A historic castle setting, the bride a vision in white … and, to complete the romantic scene, a barn owl gliding down the aisle to deliver the rings.

The bird landed safely on the outstretched arm of best man Craig Wood, the rings in a pouch on its leg. But guests’ gasps of wonder turned to shrieks as the owl was spooked by another best man, John Kelly, holding out an arm and pointing.

It flew at a third best man, Cornelius Jones, 4, who tried to shield himself. Guests at the wedding of Jeni Arrowsmith and Mark Wood at Peckforton Castle, Tarporley, Cheshire, erupted in laughter as the unfortunate Mr Jones landed on his back, legs flailing in the air.

The owl then perched on the table set aside for signing the wedding register,

glowering at the congregation. A relative of the couple videoed the incident, while wedding photographer Stacey Oliver managed to capture it on camera. She said: ‘For some reason the owl just decided to go for him. He’s absolutely petrified of anything that flies.’

The bride, 0, and groom, 29, from Wrexham, saw the funny side, as did Mr Jones – and the rest of the day went well. Mr Jones said: ‘I don’t like flying birds and I think John was a bit scared of it as well. It shocked me when it flew towards me and I just fell backwards.’

The new Mrs Wood said: ‘It was absolutely hilarious. It was an amazing day for us both, and has give us great memories we will never forget.’ I’ve got my eye on you-hoo-hoo – Page 27

A romantic touch: To oohs and aahs from guests, Mark Wood and Jeni Arrowsmith watch as the owl flies from its handler to their best man, Mr Wood’s brother Craig n1

Fall guy: Suddenly it flies at the other best men – Cornelius Jones, who cowers, and John Kelly 3

What a hoot! Guests laugh as Mr Jones’ legs flail in the air 4

2 Perfect landing: The barn owl delivers the rings to Craig Wood

Unruffled: Owl afterwards 5