Lord of the wedding rings - Billy Boyd marries

LORD of the Rings star Billy Boyd yesterday tied the knot with his long-term partner just around the corner from their Glasgow home.

The actor, best known for his portrayal of Pippin the Hobbit in Peter Jackson's hit film trilogy, wed Ali McKinnon in the West End at a low-key ceremony.

They were joined by about 30 family and friends, with guests including fellow hobbits Elijah Wood, who has gone on to star in Hollywood films such as Sin City, and Dominic Monaghan, also known for his role in the hit US television series Lost.

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Rather than opt for the kind of lavish Hollywood ceremony and reception to which his peers are accustomed, the couple, instead, decided on Oran Mor as the venue for their happy day.

Formerly known as Kelvinside Parish Church, the historic building now operates as a pub, restaurant and live music destination, and is regularly frequented by the actor when he is taking a break from filming.

His fans sent messages of good luck after spotting some of his famous co-stars in and around Glasgow on their way to the ceremony yesterday. One poster on the Basically Billy Boyd website wrote: "We wish both Billy and Ali all the best on their big day."

Others expressed shock at seeing some of Hollywood's leading names in Scotland's largest city, posting messages on social networking site, Twitter.

One user, xxrooxx, wrote: "Served Charlie from Lost today at work, the temptation to shout NOT PENNYS BOAT was overwhelming," before later adding: "Oh Elijah Wood was there too. Nearly fainted."

Louise Turner, Oran Mor's wedding co-ordinator, said she was thrilled that the couple, who have a four-year-old son, Jack, chose the Byres Road venue.

She said: "I'm delighted Billy and Allison have chosen Oran Mor for their wedding, it's very exciting. I've met them a few times to discuss the wedding and they have been lovely to deal with."

She added: "The ceremony itself is for around 30 friends and family and the reception later on will be for about 160 or so. It's not a massive bash."

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The 42-year-old, who has also starred in films such as The Flying Scotsman and On a Clear Day, met his future wife in 2002.

He was attending a pantomime in Glasgow featuring his friends and fellow actors, Paul Riley and Mark Cox, when he was introduced to the ballet dancer and yoga instructor backstage.

Mr Boyd - who trained and worked as a bookbinder before finding fame - was once voted ahead of Prince William as Britain's most eligible bachelor.

However, he revealed earlier this year that he and Ms McKinnon had never felt any pressure to marry quickly.

Speaking after announcing his engagement, the Scottish Youth Theatre patron said: "There was never a big decision not to marry - we just hadn't got around to it.But we kept saying we were going to do it, and I reckon this is the year."