Dunblane to bring out bunting for Andy Murray’s wedding

Andy Murray with fiance Kim Sears, mother Judy and father Will . Picture: Getty

Traders in the town met this week to discuss arrangements for the big event, in which thousands of tennis fans from all over the country are expected to throng the narrow streets.

Andy, 27, is to marry his fiance of nine years, Kim Sears, at Dunblane Cathedral on April 11th.

The two-times Grand Slam winner and Ms Sears were expected to tie the knot in the chapel at Cromlix House, in nearby Kinbuck.

The 300-seat, 12th century cathedral is much bigger than Cromlix chapel, which only seats 28.

Many local businesses are planning “special” events for the big day, but said it was important the Murray family’s privacy is respected.

Tom Casey, chair of Discover Dunblane, the organisation which represents Dunblane’s traders, said Andy and Kim would be “Dunblane’s royalty”.

He said today: “We are very conscious that the family are trying to keep the wedding as low key and as private as possible.

“A number of shops will be doing individual things to mark the event as they normally do when Andy is playing tennis.

“As a town, we are going to put up some bunting and wedding bows along the high street and decorate the shops with messages.

“Of course we will be making extra efforts to celebrate the wedding of Dunblane’s most famous son of modern sense.

“He is our royalty.

“But it is also important we respect the family’s wishes.”

Mr Casey added: “Given the notice period we’ve that the wedding is to be held at the cathedral, it is not practical for a specific theme to be organised throughout the town.

“That’s why every shop is likely to be doing it’s own thing.”

Lori Jones, manager of the Village Inn pub said: “We are already prepared.

“We are expecting a huge turnout and I’ve already ensured that I have extra staff working that day.

“It’s a great thing for Dunblane and I can imagine the whole town will be buzzing.

Cask ale

“A special cask ale will be available on Andy’s wedding day which is something a little different for customers.

“We only ever serve it on his special occasions - such as a big match etc.”

Meanwhile, the Dunblane Hotel is working on preparing a special menu in honour of the happy couple.

John Hill, owner of John Hill Butchers on the High Street, is contemplating what speciality of burger or sausage to create in honour of the event.

He said today: “I’ll definitely have something to honour the big day, but I haven’t quite decided yet.

“I was thinking maybe a Cromlix burger?”

Murray’s uncle, Niall Erskine, a local optician, said earlier: “Andy is looking forward to bringing all his family and friends to Dunblane.

“I’m sure lots of people will come down to see the cars as they go past, and it will be a very popular day.”

The couple got engaged in November, after dating for nine years. The notice announcing the date for the wedding was published in the list of intended marriages in the window of the Burgh Chambers.

It was also announced that Murray would have three best men, his brother Jamie, fellow tennis player Ross Hutchins and former training partner Carlos Mier. Ms Sears is expected to have four bridesmaids.

Earlier this week, Murray said he would not be going on his honeymoon until the tennis season ends in November.

The Monte Carlo Masters starts a day after he gets wed, and while he admits he is unlikely to play the event, he hasn’t ruled it out.