Boycott was diagnosed with cancer last September

Former England cricketer Geoffrey Boycott has married his long term partner in a private ceremony.

The ex-Yorkshire stalwart married Rachael Swinglehurst last Wednesday at Wakefield Register Office in West Yorkshire.

Boycott is currently battling throat cancer and Miss Swinglehurst, the mother of his 14-year-old daughter Emma, has been nursing him.

The couple, who live at Mr Boycott's farmhouse in Woolley, near Wakefield, are understood to have married in a ceremony which surprised even close friends and relatives.

His long-time friend, former international umpire and author Dickie Bird, said news of the wedding was a surprise, but wished the couple luck.

He said: "I have to say I was shocked.

"I was with him for two hours about two weeks ago having a cup of tea and he never said a thing.

Boycott's long term partner Rachael Swinglehurst

"It came as a big surprise. I wish them all the best for the future.

"I have known them for years. They are lovely people with a lovely daughter.

"I hope they have a long life together."

Boycott, who played for England 108 times, was diagnosed with cancer last September.

One of England's greatest opening batsmen, with 22 Test centuries, Boycott's dogged determination at the crease won him the respect of millions of fans.

When his cricketing career ended, he became a high-profile radio and television broadcaster.