SPECULATION is mounting that Chester-born Michael Owen will tie the knot with childhood sweetheart Louise Bonsall this weekend.

A giant marquee has been erected in the grounds of the couple's Grade II listed mansion, in Flintshire, North Wales.

Meanwhile, The Chronicle understands Miss Bonsall has shunned the bright lights of London by ordering her hand-made dress from an exclusive designer shop in Chester.

Duraine Jones in Lower Bridge Street, Chester, would not normally disclose client details but Louise has told the owner it is all right to tell people if they ask.

The shop offers a couture service with every dress hand-made from pure silk. The service is by appointment only. Brides-to-be are offered tea from a silver tea service during consultations.

Shop owner Miss Jones said: 'Brides come from all over the place. I have been selling them all over the world for 20 years. They are made to each bride's individual taste. Every dress is a one-off.'

Meanwhile, Michael Owen has had a week of contrasts. Last Monday he and his family enjoyed a jacket potato in Chester's Spud U Like eaterie.

This week the Real Madrid striker was in Las Vegas on his stag do with a group of friends along with his father Terry and brother Andy.

The £75,000-a-week England ace enjoyed playing the slot machines and theme park rides. At night it was reported he avoided drinking sessions, preferring instead to talk to his fianceé on the phone.

The couple live together at Lower Soughton Hall near Mold with their two-year-old daughter Gemma Rose where they had planned to marry.

But rules state if a licence is granted for a marriage ceremony to take place then the building must be made available for other marriages for three years.

This would have opened the couple's home up to anyone who wished to marry there.

Owen and Bonsall are now expected to marry at a nearby hotel before returning to their home for a reception.

Wedding guests are rumoured to include several sporting super-stars including Owen's Real Madrid team mate David Beckham.