This has done wonders for the local economy after the problems we have had with foot-and-mouth

Louise Burns

About 60 well-wishers, some wearing Liverpool shirts, gathered outside the castle gates on Saturday hoping to catch a glimpse of the England footballer.

They included Irene Brydon, who said the couple would not be disappointed with their choice of location.

"It is such a lovely setting and it is quite a tonic for the area that they have chosen Duns Castle," she said.

Louise Burns, who was accompanied by her three children, said: "This has done wonders for the local economy after the problems we have had with foot-and-mouth.

"When I heard they were coming here I was absolutely over the moon.

"It is our equivalent of Madonna's wedding."

Liverpool star Danny Murphy was among the guests

The pop star married Guy Ritchie at Skibo Castle in December - generating an estimated �2.5m for the Sutherland economy in the process.

A host of football stars were in attendance as Fowler married 23-year-old Kerrie Ann Hannon at the 14th century castle.

Former Liverpool players Paul Ince, Jason McAteer and Steve Staunton were among those arriving in limousines for the ceremony, along with current players Gary McAllister and Danny Murphy.

Two farms near the castle had tested positive for foot-and-mouth during the crisis, so all the vehicles entering the grounds had to drive over black disinfectant mats.

There have been a total of 11 foot-and-mouth cases in the Scottish Borders.

Scottish First Minister Henry McLeish was told last month that �12m is needed as a first step to help the area's economic recovery.