THE Earl of Shaftesbury is getting married this weekend, bringing joy to a Dorset family that has seen more than its fair share of tragedy in recent years.

Former DJ Nick Ashley-Cooper, 30, inherited his title five years ago after his father was murdered in France and his older brother died from sudden adult death syndrome at 27.

The family estate at Wimborne St Giles passed in to the ownership of the Ashleys around 1460 and the first Earl was given his title by Charles II.

The 12th Earl’s bride is understood to be a vet from Germany who has been living in London.