Good Sew-maritan saves Loretta Atkinson's big day

For Loretta Atkinson her big day was last Saturday, July 31, at Peebles Registry Office when she married fiance Steven Ward.

However, the day could have been a disaster had it not been for a seamstress by the name of Alex who mended the bride's accidentally ripped dress...just minutes before the ceremony.

Loretta (40), who lives with Steven in Biggar, said: "It all happened so quickly.

"The dress was huge and when I got out the car my heel got caught on the back of the dress and ripped through it. Suddenly this lady appeared from nowhere and told me what had happened.

"Then she said she was a seamstress and got her sewing kit out and began to mend the dress outside the registry office.

"It was all a bit surreal. After she finished she gave me a big hug and then she was gone. I didn't even get the chance to properly thank her."

Thankfully, there were no more last minute hitches and Loretta and Steven were happily married in front of family and friends before heading back to Biggar for their reception.

For more information on this story, pick up a copy of this week's Carluke and Lanark Gazette which is in the shops now.