Parents of dying boy grant his final wish of seeing them get married

The parents of a terminally ill five-year-old granted his dying wish, by getting married at his hospital bedside just days before he died.

Corey Edwards, from Teignmouth in Devon, was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect aged just seven months old. He had been through eight open-heart operations and a range of other treatments.

Corey had mentioned marriage to his parents - Craig, 28, and Jemma, 21 - a number of times, as their wedding plans had been put on hold due to his ill health. So when they were given the heartbreaking news that he only had a short time left, they decided to bite the bullet.

Within 48 hours, thanks to a heroic effort from family, friends and hospital staff, they managed to tie the knot.

Just five days later, on Wednesday evening, Corey passed away.

Their nuptials made history as they became the first couple to wed at Bristol Children's Hospital, but they had to get special permission from the Archbishop of Canterbury.

The law allows couples to get married in hospital if one of them is seriously ill, but the Archbishop is allowed to bend the rules for "pastoral reasons" if he sees fit.

Speaking before his son's death, council worker Mr Edwards said it had been a wonderful day after hearing that doctors did not expect Corey to be able to go home.

Corey was the ring-bearer for the occasion, which was presided over by hospital chaplain Rev Stephen Oram, while his younger sisters Isabelle, two, and six-month-old Caitlyn were also able to attend.

The newlyweds spent their wedding night at their son's side.

Rev Oram said it had been an emotional occasion.