British prime minister Boris Johnson has married fiancee Carrie Symonds in a low-key ceremony planned in strict secrecy.
The pair exchanged vows in Westminster Cathedral in front of a small group of close friends and family.
Mr Johnson’s office on Sunday confirmined media reports. “The Prime Minister and Ms Symonds were married yesterday afternoon in a small ceremony at Westminster Cathedral,” his office said. “The couple will celebrate their wedding with family and friends next summer.”
Tory MPs and ministers sent their congratulations to the couple.
The Sun reported that even senior Downing Street aides were totally unaware the couple were about to tie the knot on Saturday.
The couple announced their engagement — together with the news that they were expecting their first child — in February last year.
It is Mr Johnson’s third marriage, having finalised his divorce from his second wife Marina Wheeler in 2020. He and Ms Symonds have a son, Wilfred, who was born in April 2020.
The wedding ceremony at the Catholic cathedral was carried out by Fr Daniel Humphreys, who had given the couple pre-marriage instructions, and baptised Wilfred last year, the Sun reported.
Shortly after 1.30pm, the cathedral was suddenly cleared of visitors, with staff saying it was going into lockdown, the newspaper said.
Half an hour later, a limousine carrying the bride swept into the piazza outside the main west door.
Ms Symonds wore a long white dress but not a veil, while Mr Johnson was described as wearing a “very dapper” suit.
The ceremony meant Mr Johnson became the first prime minister to marry in office since Lord Liverpool married Mary Chester in 1822.
The marriage comes just days after the couple were said to have sent save-the-date cards to family and friends for a celebratory event on July 30th 2022.
Weddings in England are currently subject to strict coronavirus restrictions.
Ceremonies are permitted for up to 30 people in Covid-secure venues.
Wedding receptions are also allowed for up to 30 people in a Covid-secure venue or outdoors.
Mr Johnson’s father Stanley was spotted in Downing Street after the ceremony, while guests and musicians were seen leaving No 10 on Saturday night. – PA