Wixams couple Mark Hogan and Laetitia Gamble managed to tie the knot on Wednesday December 23 in the historic setting of Elstow Abbey, despite Covid-tier changes scuppering their reception.
They were originally scheduled to marry in October, but the nuptials were delayed until the later date, with a small reception planned in the carefully Covid-safe Knife and Cleaver at Houghton Conquest.
Then restrictions were brought in and the reception had to be cancelled with only days to spare.“We decided the important thing was making the commitment to each other and so we agreed with the Vicar to Elstow Father Paul Messam to have the ceremony.
“This is a beautiful church and we had a small group of family and friends to witness our wedding,” said Laetitia, a district nurse.
Widow Laetitia was walked down the aisle by her son Benjamin, whose partner and young son joined the very special occasion.
Elstow Abbey Church is available for weddings for everyone – including those for whom it is second-time around. Nearly 20 weddings planned for 2020 were postponed, but it is hoped they will be held next year.
Keeping Christmas alive!
Vicar Father Paul recently won a Innovation Award from the Church of England for his positive approach to finding ways to keep congregations tuned.
On Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 he joined forces with the village pub, the Red Lion to stage Covid-safe drive-in carol concerts which were broadcast on a temporary radio station: Abbey FM.See Elstow Abbey on Facebook or www.elstow-abbey.org.uk
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