A weddings-themed restaurant has opened at a shopping centre.

The new PizzaExpress branch at Gretna Gateway has taken inspiration from the neighbouring marriage mecca of Gretna Green.

It's created 25 jobs at the border complex, with shoppers reporting a busy opening weekend.

The arrival of the restaurant chain is seen as a further boost for Gretna Gateway, coming on the back of a record-breaking 2016.

PizzaExpress manager Dane Swart said: "I am incredibly excited to be bringing the nation’s best-loved pizza to Gretna, and to be at the helm of such a great team."

The 3,000 sq ft restaurant, boasts an elevated Pizziaolo kitchen space in the centre of the space, with green leather upholstered banquette seating throughout.

The theme of ‘tying the knot’ is clearly demonstrated in the restaurant’s design; from the illuminated signs depicting phrases associated with marriage - such as ‘I DO’ - dotted around the space; to the interlocking rings that feature in the wall panelling.

The theme can even be spotted in a wall tiling pattern that runs throughout. inspired by the lace detail often popular on bridal gowns.

Other marriage-themed artwork is installed throughout the restaurant.

Gretna Gateway manager Scott Wells, who has recently taken the helm of the village, said: "We’re delighted to welcome Pizza Express to the Gretna Gateway, adding to an already successful and popular line-up of brands."

PizzaExpress, which also has an outlet in Carlisle city centre, has 450 restaurants across the UK.

Its outlet at Gretna Gateway is on the most recently-added section of the centre, close to the Next store.

Fashion chain Bench will also open at the centre this month.