The groom, catering firm and parents of a bridal party have issued a “full and frank” apology for their part in the staging of an “illegal” wedding reception in Longford last week. William Stokes, together with his father Patrick Stokes, both of Willow Park, Strokestown Road, Longford; Stephen Kelly, Railway Meadow, Farneyhoogan, Longford and Peter Vocella, Main Street, Longford were all ordered to hand over €3,000 in compensation following a special circuit court sitting in Longford this afternoon. That came less than 24 hours after over 100 revellers attended a wedding reception on the outskirts of the midlands town despite an emergency court injunction being granted to Longford County Council to prevent its staging. However, Mr Flynn said the court was in a position to proceed with alleged criminal contempt proceedings against the groom, Mr Stokes, his father and father in law as well as fast food takeaway proprietor Mr Vocella. Judge Johnson also called into question the motives of both Mr Horohoe and Mr Vocella, both of whom provided the marquee and catering on the day of the wedding.

Source: Irish Independent May 10, 2021 17:03 UTC