Tommy Sandhu, radio presenter on the BBC Asian Network and his fiancee became the first couple to marry at Valentines Mansion this weekend.

Valentines Mansion was recently licensed as a venue for marriage and the formation of civil partnerships and is set to become one of the boroughs most popular choices of venue for such ceremonies. Newly restored, the 300 year-old mansion boasts gorgeous period rooms with views over the breathtaking historic gardens.

Currently the host of ‘The Tommy Sandhu Weekend Breakfast’ every Saturday and Sunday on the BBC Asian Network, Tommy has a long and varied career in the world of media. He appeared on Blind Date with Cilla Black, and soon after replaced ‘Our Graham’ as the voice of Blind Date. He also went on to produce the music for several other hit TV shows as well as being a resident DJ for some of the countries most elite venues, where guests have included the likes of David and Victoria Beckham, Elton John, Noel Gallagher, to name but a few. As a showbiz reporter he has interviewed an array of A-list celebrities including Will Smith, Johnny Depp, Kevin Spacey and Kiera Knightley.

Looking for a romantic setting for his fairytale wedding, Tommy, of Goodmayes, Ilford, thought the mansion was perfect for his special day. “To have such a grand, historical building on our doorstep in Ilford is amazing. The mansion allows us to come away with great pictures and have a gorgeous setting for the big day”.

The wedding hire package at Valentines includes exclusive use of the mansion and use of the historic gardens, and with level access throughout with a lift to all floors, excellent transport links, including a car park, and bus and tube links within a few minutes walk it makes for the perfect venue. Hire is also available for business and community group meetings.

To find out more about hiring the mansion please call 020 8708 8100 or visit the 'hire' page.

Photograph by Celebrations Videography.