Winter Gardens'¨. . . to the batcave

Richard Ashworth, 30, rode to his Winter Gardens wedding to Sarah Clayton, 29, in style atop a genuine 1966 Batmobile.

Fleet administrator Richard, who lives on Windward Avenue in Fleetwood, said: “It was a massive surprise. I had no idea at all.

“I was a bit overcome to be honest.

“Sarah thought it was brilliant. It was something a bit unique and different.

“I’ve been a huge fan of superheroes for as long as I can remember. I’ve even got the Batman logo on my wedding ring, so it tied in quite nicely!”

The iconic vehicle was booked in by Richard’s stepfather and best man Steve Richardson, 55, who organised for it to be moved secretly from London to Blackpool especially for his stepson’s wedding.

The car was used in the 1966–1968 live action Batman television show and its film adaptation, and boasted a bat-ray, a super-powered bat magnet, a hidden bat laser-beam, and a bat-radar.

Steve said: “Richard is very interested in comic book characters, especially Batman. I wanted to introduce the element of surprise.

“He was overcome and drawn to tears. Sarah was gobsmacked because she didn’t have a clue – we kept it a secret from all the family. The first time she saw it was when Richard drove up outside the Winter Gardens.

“We caused quite a commotion because it was armed forces day so the crowds were out in the square. We were absolutely swamped.

“That Batmobile was actually used by Adam West, the original Batman. It’s not a replica - it was actually used in the live-action TV series.

“I’m lead to believe there’s only two of them still available for use.”