A hearing dog who led his deaf owner into the arms of his bride-to-be took on a key honour at the couple's wedding yesterday – by carrying the rings to the altar.

Norwich couple Simon Moore and Vicky Royall tied the knot in front of family and friends at an emotional ceremony in the Assembly House on Theatre Street.

At the centre of the proceedings was the groom's talented companion Foggy, proudly attired in a waistcoat and satin tie, with a ring box attached to his back.

Mr Moore was born with Treacher Collins Syndrome, which left him severely deaf and with a facial disfigurement.

The 27-year-old said his condition left him low on self-confidence and he would shy away from social situations – until national charity Hearing Dogs for Deaf People paired him up with Foggy, who helped him find independence and true love.

'I wanted Foggy here mainly because without him I wouldn't have met Vicky,' said Mr Moore. 'I gave him the most important job I could think of, apart from the best man. He probably didn't have a clue what was going on, but he has done a fantastic job.

'Before I had Foggy, I would stay at home and lock myself in my room where I was happy. Thanks to Foggy, I got my independence, and it was because of him Vicky bumped into me and started to ask about the charity.'

Mr Moore, who works as a British Sign Language tutor, met his future wife at a sign language club at the Vauxhall Centre in Johnson Place in 2007. They started dating in 2009.

The newly-wed Mrs Moore, 33, a communication support worker, recalled: 'I saw Foggy come trotting in first, and Simon came behind him. I went up to him, first to ask about Foggy, and then to find out everything about Simon.

'He is a great character and he is so much help to Simon. They are joined at the hip, so it was fun to have him at the wedding.'

Also at the wedding were Mrs Moore's three daughters: Bethany, 11, Natasha, 10 and Ellie, seven.

For more information on Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, go to www.hearingdogs.org.uk.