Couple's honeymoon cruise on Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation Canal

A COUPLE set sail on their married life by heading to their reception by canal boat.

The mini cruise on narrowboat Blackwater Rose on the Chelmer Navigation took groom Simon Rushbrook by surprise and was planned by the bride Susan Williams.

Susan and her attendants, sister Maria Massey and daughters Jessica, 16 and Vikki, 21 and pageboys Jay, 9, and Joe Alexander, 5, travelled to the Chelmer riverside church of Ulting near Maldon on the narrowboat which is owned by Blackwater Boats.

But after the marriage ceremony Susan “shanghaied” her new husband aboard for a gentle trip to Paper Mill Lock where they disembarked for their reception.

“It was a big surprise but like the rest of the day everything sailed along swimmingly,” joked Simon a demolition expert.

Susan who works for Chelmsford Star Co-op's Quadrant store in Chelmsford said: “It was a perfect day and just right for a cooling trip on the water. Simon has lived near the canal all his life.

“I thought getting to the church on time by slow-boat was idyllic. He seemed impressed with our honeymoon cruise!”

Later the couple flew off for a honeymoon in Cyprus where they intend to include a hot air balloon flight.

Blackwater Rose was decorated by boss Ron Abbott who said: “This is the first wedding party to take to the water. It was also a first for All Saints', Ulting.

“It was a big hit with all the people on the banks who cheered, waved and wished the newlyweds bon voyage for their future.”