It may not be conventional, but a bride and groom from Richmond banned guests from buying gifts for their wedding.

But Melissa and David Wallis did not ask wedding guests to put away their wallets for good, instead asking for donations for Princess Alice Hospice so they could share their happiness with others.

The couple from Richmond chose the Esher hospice as David’s mother, Anita, received care there before she died in April.

Since getting married on July 19, the couple said they had been touched and amazed by the generosity of their friends and family, with donations currently in excess of £1,500.

Mr Wallis said: "When we first discussed plans for getting married, Melissa was insistent that rather than receiving presents, or money towards our honeymoon, she would prefer that a local charity would benefit from the generosity of our friends and family.

"After mum was diagnosed with cancer last summer and after seeing how Princess Alice Hospice provided comfort to us all during that difficult time; Melissa’s mind was made up that it should be them who benefitted from our special day."

To donate, visit justgiving.com/AddyWallisWedding.