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Wednesday, 7 March, 2001, 15:41 GMT
Jackson fans await Geller wedding
Uri Geller and Michael Jackson
Uri Geller and his best man Michael Jackson
Fans of Michael Jackson have gathered outside the home of psychic Uri Geller as he renews his wedding vows with the singer as best man.

Dozens of cars drove through the iron gates of Geller's home in Sonning, Berkshire, amid tight security, on Wednesday morning.

Guests at the ceremony include broadcaster Sir David Frost, Eurythmics musician Dave Stewart and former Formula One world motor racing champion Nigel Mansell.

Jackson, 42, who addressed students at the Oxford Union on Tuesday night, arrived late for the ceremony, at around 1500 GMT.


I chose Michael because he is a good friend and I wanted him to experience a Jewish wedding

Uri Geller
The star is expected to pass Geller a gold ring when the psychic renews his wedding vows with his wife of 30 years, Hannah.

The private ceremony is thought to have been watched by 130 guests, who also include Bee Gees singer Barry Gibb, US magician David Blaine and broadcaster Alan Coren.

A lavish feast was being laid on in an ivory coloured marquee in the middle of Geller's garden. He was due to exchange vows with his wife after a champagne reception in the marquee, which was garlanded with lilies, roses and orchids.

Gold ring

The service was conducted by Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, a friend of both Geller and the singer.

In a recent interview, Geller said he had no concerns about press intrusion at the ceremony.

He said: "Do you think I'm important enough for helicopters? Anyway, there'll be a marquee."

There are conflicting reports over when the psychic and the singer first met.

Jackson and Rabbi Shmuley Boteach
Jackson with Rabbi Shmuley Boteach
Some reports say they met in the late 80s, while Geller himself recently told a newspaper that he met Jackson three-and-a-half-years ago through Harrods department store owner Mohamed al-Fayed.

"I chose Michael because he is a good friend and I wanted him to experience a Jewish wedding," Geller said.

'Protect children'

"I like him, he's a friend," he added.

In his speech to the Oxford Union Jackson called for a universal bill of rights to protect children.

The singer, along with Geller and Rabbi Boteach, have founded a children's charity, Heal the Kids, with the aim of improving the lives of children.

He arrived at the Oxford Union almost three hours late for his speech.

Liquid News will report live from the Michael Jackson Day concert in London, which he is attending. It will also report on Uri Geller's marriage vows renewal. The show is broadcast on BBC Choice at 2030 GMT.

See also:

07 Mar 01 | Entertainment
Jackson's drizzly reception
05 Mar 01 | Entertainment
Jackson's CD spree
06 Mar 01 | Entertainment
Jackson calls for children's rights
05 Mar 01 | Entertainment
Oxford's star chamber
06 Mar 01 | Entertainment
Jackson address: Full text
06 Mar 01 | Entertainment
The rabbi, the psychic and the pop star
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