A YOUNG couple who met while studying at the University of Worcester will become the first people to tie the knot at the university’s city campus.

Gemma Lawrence and Shaun Hill will marry in the city campus board room, where the British Medical Association was founded, at 3.30pm on Saturday, September 1, before having drinks in the Jenny Lind Chapel.

The campus was only licensed for marriage and civil partnership ceremonies last year.

Miss Lawrence, a 22-year-old nursery worker, said: “When we heard that the university was able to host weddings we thought it would be perfect.

“Most places we had been looking at were either too expensive or wanted us to have the ceremony and reception there. But we had already set our hearts on having the reception on the Worcester River Cruises and were looking for somewhere just to have the service before.

“This was the perfect solution.

“What better place to get married than the place we met.”

Mr Hill, aged 23, who works for Wychavon District Council, popped the question while on the Malvern Hills – the scene of one of their first dates.

He said: “We’re really excited about getting married at the university.

“It has made the whole thing even more special for us.”

The pair met four years ago when Mr Hill was studying sociology and Miss Lawrence was studying primary education at the university.

They now live near Shrub Hill Train Station in Worcester after graduating in November 2010.

Their reception will be held on Worcester River Cruises.