The wedding of two Derby Evening Telegraph journalists was the setting for one of the most elaborate best man speeches in the history of the institution of marriage.

Deputy News Editor Mick Hill married health correspondent Joanna Snicker in her home town of Llanelli.

Best man was Johnny Stevens, a freelance documentary maker who has known Barnsley-born Mick since they trained together at Hastings.

For his speech he had managed to get recorded messages from two of Mick’s sporting heroes, Barnsley manager Dave Bassett and England cricketer Darren Gough.

He went on to screen embarrassing pictures of Mick in younger days – including a graduation photo which onlookers said was strangely reminiscent of Alison Moyet.

But the piece de resistance came when he unveiled a six-feet high wheel of fortune which Johnny had struggled down with from London on the train, and wheeled along the road to the reception.

Among the highlights of its spins were one which produced a professional-quality commentary of the 2001 FA Cup Final between Derby County and Barnsley – which included Mick coming on as a substitute for Barnsley and scoring the winner.

Post-match interviews featured Mick’s colleague – and well-known mimic – Robin Johnson impersonating both Mick and Joanna.

After a wild night of celebrations, the happy couple left in a suitably decorated car and are currently honeymooning in San Francisco and Mexico.

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