A THRILLED bride from Helensburgh has spoken of her excitement after her bridesmaid was chosen as the best in Scotland – moving her a step closer to being named the best in the UK.

Leanne McNiven nominated her best pal Amanda Wade for the prize following her efforts to make sure Leanne had a wedding day to remember – and was delighted when Amanda was announced on Friday as one of just seven finalists from across the UK.

Leanne, who tied the knot last June and now lives in Inverness with her gamekeeper husband Callum, told the Advertiser this week: “I’m just overwhelmed for Amanda. I can’t believe how much excitement there is about the competition – I’m getting interviewed, she’s getting interviewed, and we’re absolutely thrilled she’s made it through to the final.”

Amanda’s efforts to ensure her ‘bestie’ had a hen do to remember were reported in the Advertiser on March 8 – but Leanne revealed this week that her pal’s hard work to ensure a memorable wedding didn’t stop there.

“Callum and I got married in my husband’s mum’s garden,” she continued. “We hired a couple of tepees for the ceremony and Amanda was out foraging for flowers to decorate them the night before, and the morning of, the wedding – and she did everybody’s make-up too.

“Amanda always insisted that she would take care of things so I didn’t have to worry about anything.”

Leanne and Amanda spent much of their childhoods in Helensburgh while their dads were serving in the Royal Navy – and though they no longer live in the town, they remain the closest of friends to this day.

“We were so close when we were growing up,” Leanne added, “although we’ve both moved away from Helensburgh now – but it still takes me aback that she cares so much.

“My parents, Jim and Sina Park, still live in Helensburgh and they’re really excited too. Amanda has done so much for our family and we’re all keeping our fingers crossed for her in the final.”

The UK winner of the competition, organised by hen and stag experts Red7, will be announced on March 23.