This was one match England's rugby players were content to watch from the sidelines.

All of them, that is, except their stocky number eight Mr. Paul Simpson.

Mr. Simpson took centre stage when he finally tied the knot with fiance Kim Collingwood.

The couple, both 36, were married at Astwood Park on Thursday following a 13-year courtship.

And as Mr. Simpson sealed the open-air ceremony by kissing the bride, his team-mates gave him a full-throated roar of approval.

For them, the marriage had been the best-kept secret of the trip to the Island, where they are competing in the World Rugby Classic.

"They didn't know anything about it until yesterday,'' said team manager Mr.

Mike Coley.

Mr. Simpson, who plays in the back row, told The Royal Gazette he met his bride in a disco in the United Kingdom.

"We were supposed to get married last year, but there was a problem with the organisation,'' he said.

"I won't say whose fault it was, but it wasn't Kim's!'' The couple have been to Bermuda several times, and had little doubt it provided a perfect setting for their special day.

"It is an absolutely beautiful place. This is such a wonderful backdrop for a wedding,'' said Mr. Simpson, who hails from Leeds.

His wife agreed: "We both love Bermuda.'' After the ceremony -- officiated by Rev. Mark Tremblay from St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church -- the couple toasted their union with champagne.

It was then on to a boat trip to an island, followed by a drink -- or two -- in town.

MATCH OF THE DAY -- England rugby player Mr. Paul Simpson with his bride, Kim, after their wedding at Astwood Park on Thursday.