22 SEPTEMBER 2003
London society celebrated one of the most hotly-anticipated events of the year on Saturday when Ben Goldsmith and Kate Rothschild took their vows at Bury St Edmonds in Suffolk.

About 600 guests gathered at St Mary's Church to see 23-year-old Ben, son of the late billionaire Sir James Goldsmith, marry Kate, 21, who is in line to inherit one of Europe's most famous banking fortunes.

The ceremony, which was hailed by social commentators as "the wedding of the century", unites two of Britain's richest families. It was an understated affair, however, with the emphasis on tradition rather than glitz and glam.

Kate, whose father Amschel died seven years ago, was given away by her 18-year-old brother James. She walked down the aisle in a simple white dress, which she is believed to have designed herself. And once the couple had made their vows, the entire congregation moved on to Rushbrooke Hall - the bride's family home - for a lavish reception.

Ben and Kate were both anxious to avoid a high-profile celebrity event, but there were still a few famous faces in attendance. Prince and Princess Michael of Kent were both among the guests, along with Ben's sister Jemima and her husband Imran Khan.

The newlyweds, who have been dating for three years, are expecting their first child in February.