Tortoise, 102, guest of honour at Palgrave wedding

A 102-year-old tortoise was the guest of honour at a wedding in Palgrave.

Sammy, who is described as very clever, took part in celebrating Emma and Ric Washington’s special day, together with his tortoise companions Clyde and Esther.

“My husband and I fell in love with the species 10 years ago,” said Emma, 36.

“They are part of our family and it seemed wrong not to have them there.”

Sammy was adopted by the couple after they saw him at the Norfolk Tortoise Club.

“He used to walk up and sit next to me while I had my lunch,” said Emma, who volunteers for the charity. “I didn’t have the heart to leave him there.”

The reptiles watched the celebrations from an outdoor enclosure, specially built for them by Emma’s dad, Anthony Jackson.

For advice and support on tortoise keeping, visit Norfolk Tortoise Club's website.

They also host regular events and health checks.