THE 2017 search for Cheshire’s best wedding speech has begun as Mottram Hall and the QHotels group launches its Wedding Speech Awards.

Mottram Hall is looking to newlyweds, videographers and wedding guests from all corners of the UK to enter a video as it hunts for the most emotional, unique or creative wedding speeches.

Wedding couples and guests are encouraged to enter the awards by September 25 by uploading a video to the hotel group’s Facebook page or using the hashtag #WeddingSpeechAwards on Instagram.

Last year’s winner, Kevin Lake, won the public’s vote after his impressive speech with co-best man Craig Adlington.

The speech began with some cheeky anecdotes before the duo surprised fellow guests by launching into a personal take on the ‘Fresh Prince of Bel Air’ rap, telling the journey of the bride and groom to their big day.

Kevin said: “Giving a best man’s speech can be a challenge, and when we found out we’d be giving a joint best man’s speech we knew it had to be really memorable.

“We watched a lot of wedding speeches to find inspiration and decided that incorporating music was the way to go.

“We re-wrote the ‘Fresh Prince’ rap to reminisce about the good times and we got some good jokes in at the bridegroom’s expense too!”

Following the entry period, QHotels’ panel of judges will shortlist the entries and invite the public to vote for their winner, who will win a one-night QHotels break.

Deirdre Billing, general manager at Mottram Hall Hotel said: “Last year’s awards saw us receive so many fantastic entries from the people of Cheshire.

“We’re excited to see what this year brings as wedding speeches are getting more and more creative.

“I think we’re going to see a fantastic variety of entries that we hope will inspire future speech-givers, whether they are going for a sentimental approach or hoping to have the room in hysterics.”

To find out more about the Wedding Speech Awards and submit your entry, visit Facebook.com/QHotels or follow @QHotelsgroup on Instagram.