ON THE eve of Valentine's Day, 17 couples gathered at a Lake District church for a celebration of marriage and a slice of wedding cake.
Many chose to renew their wedding vows at the special service at St James' Church, Staveley, on Sunday.
"It is always a joy to join couples together in holy marriage," said Rev Shanthi Thompson, "and to offer couples the opportunity to renew those vows and promise, with God’s help, to continue to love and care for one another was very special."
Husbands and wives celebrating a grand total of 626 years in matrimony were joined by family, friends and members of the Ings and Staveley with Kentmere Mothers’ Union branches, who served afternoon tea and wedding cake.
The service featured popular wedding hymns and readings, with prayers led by members of the congregation. Gifts were given to the couple married the longest, the most recently married, the latest bride to arrive (35 minutes) and those who travelled the furthest to be at the service.
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