AN American couple will be travelling from their New Jersey home to Sherwood Forest to renew their marriage vows on the eve of this year's Robin Hood Festival.
Joe and Debbie Tencza will be celebrating 15 years of marriage and will dress in themed costumes as they renew their vows on Sunday, August 4 at the Sherwood Forest visitors' centre.
They will then stay for the week-long festival.
Debbie, 56, said: "Last year I was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent several operations but my wonderful husband Joe was by my side every moment, and I am now cancer-free in 2013. So this seems like the perfect time for new beginnings and for our vow renewal. Sherwood Forest is the perfect place for a fresh start."
The couple are both fans of the Robin Hood legend and have made the trip to Sherwood Forest once before, but this will be their first time at the festival. They attend Robin Hood festivals in the USA in full costume every year and even have a puppy called Robin of Loxley.
A small party will make the big trip in August, including Debbie's maid of honour.
Nottinghamshire County Council's registration service will be managing the vow renewal at Sherwood Forest.
Culture committee chairman Councillor John Knight said: "We are delighted Debbie and Joe have chosen Sherwood Forest to celebrate such a special occasion. We have a lot of interest every year in the Robin Hood Festival from visitors across the globe."
