Bear 'marries' Russian couple in bizarre ceremony

A brown bear has married a couple in Russia when he stepped in as the registrar.

The 294 pound bear - named Stepan - was invited to the wedding of Russian couple Denis and Nelya, both 41, and stepped in to play the role of the registrar.

Denis told the Daily Mirror newspaper: "We both knew Stepan is a very kind bear but still it is a huge, unpredictable animal so we were a bit scared, but still happy to be able to make our dream come true."

And despite being somewhat apprehensive of Stepan's marrying qualifications, the pair admitted it was a "fantastic experience".

Denis added: "It was a fantastic experience to have this photoshoot with Stepan.

"It is such a special feeling to hug a real, huge bear, and you cannot compare it to anything else.

"We will absolutely remember this day forever."