Thai twins were married in a symbolic tradition believed to ward off bad luck from their past lives.

The youngsters Pokket and Pokklao, both 8, were wed in a lively ceremony at their home in Phayao province on March 24.

Their father, Chaiwut Chatngern, hosted the occasion alongside a housewarming celebration attended by relatives and neighbours.

Footage shows the locals holding a traditional dowry procession, with offerings of food and plants, followed by a flower garland exchange by both twins.

Elders then performed wrist-tying rituals with auspicious threads to attract blessings for the children's health and happiness.

Chaiwut said: 'When the twins were born we knew that someday we would have to hold a wedding ceremony for them. We waited until they were old enough to take part.

'We even saw a fortune teller to give us advice about their karma from their past lives and he advised us to do the marriage ceremony when they were eight, as that is a significant number and they can understand what is happening.

'We believe that Pokket and Pokklao were together in their past life and they have been reunited in this life. Now they are inseparable through birth, so it's very special for them to be born.'

Thai Buddhists believe that opposite-sex twins used to be lovers in their past lives but were unable to marry - either through death, forced separation or relationship problems. They also believe that the children must marry each other or be haunted by bad luck, sickness and accidents in their current life.

The practice, passed down through generations, is believed to bring harmony and longevity to the twins' lives. However, the marriage is not legally binding and is only done for ceremonial purposes.