IT was truly a community affair when a soon-to-be-married Winchester couple received gifts and good wishes from old friends.

Mesi Dioszegi, a barista at Tom’s Deli, and Simon Digweed, a hairdresser at Bibas, both located on St George’s Street, are due to tie the knot on Monday (July 16) and customers of both took the chance to present an early wedding present.

Miss Dioszegi, 27, has been working at the deli since 2012 when she first met 41-year-old Simon. The two started out as just friends but then a dinner date in October changed everything.

“We met here because he works next door,” she said. “We’ve been together since last October, so nine months in all, but we’ve known each other for over two years.

“It was quite unexpected; we just went out for dinner and got to know each other better.”

Miss Dioszegi, who is originally from Hungary, will be joined by her parents and her sister for the service at the registry office who will get to see her sparkle in an ivory strapless fishtail dress.

They will have another ceremony in her home country on Saturday (July 21) where she will be surrounded by the rest of her relatives for a more traditional affair but she said having such loyal customers and friends by her side on Monday will mean everything.

“They are very good customers, regulars really, but we’ve got a good relations. It’s just such a lovely surprise to be given this.”

Mr Digweed said: “It was very nice of them to do that. I’m really looking forward to the wedding; it’s going to be great.”