Iraq hero walks down the aisle

3:40pm Tuesday 15th July 2008

Iraq war veteran Sam Winkless has kept his vow to walk Elizabeth Prothero down the aisle after his amazing recovery from a near-fatal battle wound.

The 22-year-old was able to stand for the marriage ceremony at St John's Church, Pembroke Dock, after recovering from surgery that saved his leg when he was hit by a mortar round in Iraq.

Elizabeth's mum, Sheila Prothero, said: "It was so nice to see him walking down the aisle - he managed to stand all day.

"He did so well and the two of them looked really happy."

Former schoolfriends Sam and Elizabeth, aged 23, became reacquainted through a social networking website while he was recovering from his brush with death.

They soon became inseparable and tied the knot on Saturday, July 5th.

The bride wore a strapless gown with a long train and embroidered bodice, while Sam, supported by a walking stick, wore a cream suit with silver waistcoat and tie.

Elizabeth's five-year-old son Mikey wore a matching silver cravat with a dark suit.

The newlyweds spent their honeymoon at Alton Towers following a karaoke-themed wedding reception.

The couple also defied convention with their personalised wedding cake figurines.

Elizabeth, who enjoys rave music, had a figurine wearing a pink tutu and furry boots, while Sam's sported a hoodie and baseball cap.