Wedded spice

As they became man and wife, a single dove was released as a symbol of their love.

The wedding was held out of the sight of press cameras at a castle on the outskirts of Dublin.

Squads of security guards were hired to keep fans and journalists from gaining access to medieval Luttrellstown Castle.

All 236 guests at the reception had to wear a security tag, even the couple's baby son Brooklyn.

Just 29 close family and friends, including fellow Spice Girls Mel G, Mel C and Emma, witnessed the ceremony which was conducted by Bishop of Cork, Paul Colton.

Posh Spice - one of the architects of the 'girl-power' philosophy - stuck to her principles and did not pledge to "obey" the Manchester United player.

The new Mr and Mrs Beckham both shed tears after exchanging vows.

After the ceremony the couple joined their guests, who were all asked to wear black or white, for sumptuous wedding celebrations.

Guests included Manchester United stars Ryan Giggs, Nicky Butt, Gary and Phil Neville, Old Trafford legend Sir Bobby Charlton, the Spice Girls.

Elton John cries off

Sir Elton John - who was due to play at the reception - called off early on Sunday.

He is suffering "heat-stroke" after a spell in Italy during his current European tour and was advised by his doctor not to fly to Dublin.

Crowds gathered at the entrance to the castle had hoped to catch a glimpse of the famous guests on their way in. But many arrived by helicopter or in smoked-glass limousines.

The couple's baby son Brooklyn was also at the ceremony and will be with the couple throughout the evening.

The multi-millionaire pair have kept details of the marriage a secret to safeguard their £1m contract with OK! magazine. But a spokeswoman did let out small snippets about the day.

David, aged 24, and Victoria, 25, emerged shortly before the ceremony at 1600 BST, having spent their last hours of freedom apart in traditional style.

"They haven't seen each other today," the spokeswoman said.

David's best man was fellow player Gary Neville, and Victoria's bridesmaid was her sister Louise, 22, with Louise's daughter Liberty and David's niece Georgia, both 16 months, acting as flower girls and dressed as angels.

Secret bridal gown

The bridal dress remains a secret - apart from the fact that it cost £60,000 and was designed by American Vera Weng who created Sharon Stone's wedding gown.

The couple, famed for their expensive tastes, had their party outfits designed by Antonio Berardi.

No expense was spared for the reception, reported to have cost £500,000, and a total of 437 staff were required for the whole day.

Wedding guests were greeted with a glass of rose champagne from Laurent Perrier.

An 18-piece orchestra was playing specially rehearsed numbers, including a Spice Girls medley.

At 2000 BST the guests sat down in one of the marquees erected in the grounds for a meal, created by chef Jason Reynolds, which included David Beckham's favourite dessert, sticky toffee pudding.

Luxury venue

The gothic castle, built in 1794, is set in 560 acres (227 hectares) of land, screened from public view by tall, leafy trees and a winding driveway.

It is an exclusive luxury retreat for the rich and famous. Former guests include former US President Ronald Reagan, movie star Paul Newman and rock group REM.

The couple will not be getting any presents. They have asked for shopping vouchers instead.