Homing in on big prize (From Penarth Times)

Homing in on big prize

LOVE is in the air for two Penarth teachers hoping to clinch a prize package worth £40,000.

Stanwell Comprehensive teacher Robert Sheldon, 29, and his partner Laura Layton, 25, plan to walk down the aisle this July.

They have chosen a civil ceremony at St Donat's Art Centre with the romantic backdrop of the castle behind them and a sea view in front.

They have been selected from thousands to join just one other eager pair looking to represent Wales in this year's Wedding and Home magazine's Bride of the Year final.

Laura and Robert would be glad of the top pay-out to help refurbish their home.

Sully Primary school teacher Laura said: "Most of what we have now is second-hand from my brother. It would be wonderful to replace it with new furniture."

The prize includes £12,000 for a honeymoon of their choice. Robert, a geography teacher, said: "On our budget we can either stay close to home and have a little luxury, or go further away but scrimp a bit. If we won this prize, it would end our dilemma."

The teachers, who live at Wenvoe Terrace, Barry, met on January 14 1998 in a Swansea nightclub. Laura recalled: "I was dancing like a fool in Baron's 'Funk Night'. Robert watched me most of the night, then came and asked if I minded strangers talking to me. I said it depended on who the stranger was. When he walked away, I thought I'd blown it, but he came back over to ask if he minded THIS stranger talking to me. Since then, we've hardly been apart." Robert proposed to Laura on March 19, 2001.

If they are chosen as regional representatives they will join ten others hoping to win the wedding of their dreams.