A ROMANTIC couple celebrated Valentine’s Day 48 hours early by getting married on live TV today.

John Shephard and Caroline Luke, both of New Milton, were one of four couples picked to tie the knot on today’s edition of ITV’s Good Morning Britain. The ceremony took place at historic Auchen Castle, near Gretna Green in Scotland.

In January the programme appealed for anyone who was thinking of getting married in the new year to do so on the breakfast show in front of GMB viewers.

Caroline, 51, said: “My e-mail mentioned that John was a carer for his 96-year-old grandfather, who lives with us, so we never had a night away.”

Following confirmation that they had been selected to appear on the programme the couple had a month to choose their rings and wedding outfits.

Caroline met 52-year-old John in the hairdressing salon where she works – Elegance in Lymington Road, New Milton. They had been together for six years before John popped the question a year ago. All the couples who appeared on today’s show were joined by weather presenter Laura Tobin, who was an extra bridesmaid. Showbiz editor Richard Arnold was master of ceremonies.

Three of the couples said “I do” for the first time while the fourth pair renewed their wedding vows.

Speaking before the first of the ceremonies Laura said: “I love the romance behind each couple, the happy faces and of course the dress.”

The forecaster added: “The outlook is wet but that'll be my tears, I always cry at weddings.”