A roadside romeo from Berinsfield finally got hitched this week -- to the woman who had spurned his marriage proposals for 12 years.

Andy Mackie, 41, declared his love big-style on Valentine's Day in 1989, with five signs along the A4074 asking 'Pam will you marry me?'.

However, his fiance, Pam Sullivan-Webb, resisted the public declaration for a further 12 years.

Now, the pair, together for almost 18 years, have surprised family members by tying the knot at Wheatley Register Office last Monday.

Car-fitter Mr Mackie explained: "I phoned Pam's eldest son, Clayton, on Monday morning and asked if he could get an hour off work to meet us in Wheatley at 10.30am. And I asked Amy, our 16-year-old daughter, to come too. But I didn't tell her we were going to the register office."

The rest of the family, including Pam's other two sons, only found out on Monday evening after a celebratory meal at a restaurant in Kennington.

Her son, Clayton, 28, said: "I'm pleased for them. It's about time."

The couple have no immediate plans for a honeymoon, although they may go to Crete next year.

Friends and family have been invited to a wedding reception barbecue tonight.