thanks for you replies. The marriage has been legally registered. I will pay a visit to Buriram immigration to ask the question. As yet I only have 200k in my Thai bank account which will shortly be at least 400k. I will read the other posts via the links you have provided.
Why not go for the 1yr retirement visa with multi entry. Then return next year before it expires and renew for another year. Would save a lot of hassle wouldn't it??
the plan is to get married during my stay then apply for a marriage visa. Just not sure if the initial visa needs to be a Non O or Tourist visa. Maybe either will suffice?