A CHEER echoed around St Mary’s Church, Tenby on Saturday as the historic building witnessed one of its greatest-ever celebrations - the marriage of its Rector and curate.

Nearly 600 people packed the pews as Canon Andrew Davies and the Rev Alex Grace tied the knot.

The couple’s romance blossomed soon after the Rev Grace began her ministry in Tenby in 2012, and they announced their engagement in January.

They vowed at the time that all their church ‘family’ would be invited, and well-wishers from the town and parish turned out in force to share the joyful occasion.

Amongst them was Malcolm Stacey, chalice assistant at St Mary’s, who described the service as ‘very moving‘.

He added: “In all 14 years I’ve attended St Mary’s, I’ve never known the church so full.

“The bride looked radiant and the groom oozed happiness.

“At the end, there was a cheer for the couple - not something you normally hear in a church service.

“Yet it was perfectly in keeping, as it reflected the sincere good wishes of the huge congregation.”

Rev Grace was accompanied down the aisle by her daughters, 13-year-old Elizabeth and 10-year-old Hannah, who also gave her away, while one of the Rector’s two daughters, Bethan, sang a solo.

The service of an hour and 40 minutes was conducted by the Archdeacon of St David’s, the Venerable Denis Wight, and included communion and music from both the church choir and Tenby Male Choir.

The celebrations continued with a picnic in the church grounds, with food prepared and served by the gentlemen of the church’s Soupermen group, and the ladies of the Mothers’ Union.

Added Mr Stacey: “It was a flawless occasion for a very popular bride and groom, whose ministry is a credit to Pembrokeshire.”