A BRIDEGROOM missed his wedding after he was rushed to hospital.

For Mark Hull also missed his father’s 80th birthday party and Christmas as he was in hospital for 16 weeks after suffering severe pancreatitis.

For Mark and Sharon Birt, September 21 should have been the happiest day of their lives, as they were due to tie the knot at Colchester Town Hall.

However, just two days before the wedding Mark, from Colchester, was rushed to Broomfield Hospital.

He did not leave until January 11 including a week was spent in a London hospital having an operation to remove the infection.

Mark, 53, said he not only missed his wedding but a number of unfortunate events took place while he was in hospital.

He said: “Sharon lost her dad just three days after what should have been our wedding day and I could not help celebrate my dad’s 80th Birthday with him in October. I had to spend Christmas in hospital and it was the worst Christmas ever, as I love Christmas.”

Mark is recovering at home but his illness has taken its toll on him physically and mentally and although his employers at Kalestead in Braintree have been amazing, financially.

Machine operator Mark still has a long way to go but the first step was to rearrange his wedding with partner of 15 years, Sharon. The couple were due to have their reception at The Cricketers in Fordham Heath, but had to think again as they needed to save money.

Mark’s sister Tina Townsend, asked Joanna Beechey, general manager at the White Hart in Coggeshall, if she could help.

Tina said: “When I explained what was going on she insisted on helping by offering them a small reception free of charge. We can’t thank her enough.

“Sharon and Mark were emotional when I told them, a few tears flowed.”

Mark and Sharon will attend the reception after tying the knot on March 2 at Colchester Town Hall.

Joanna Beechey, the pub’s general manager, said: “I instantly wanted to help, your wedding should be a special day.”

The pub has planned a buffet for up to 30 guests.

Mark added: “There are some truly amazing and kind people in this world. This has been such a difficult time and I can’t thank them enough.”

Mark has to overcome another challenge first, however. He said: “I have got to try to walk again before then as I have lost the use of my legs.”