I DO not think it was quite what the medieval builders had in mind when they were constructing Ripon Cathedral, but a spectacular entrance through a rood screen and along the central aisle of a large nave certainly lends itself to a catwalk.

It was the second time that the cathedral had held a Wedding Show; the first was two years ago. This time, on a recent Saturday, it followed heavy overnight snow, but it did not deter the hundreds of visitors. Knowing what large (and small) churches can be like in snowy weather, I hope the cathedral managed to keep them warm while they watched the displays of wedding gowns and menswear, and visited the stands representing 70 modern and vintage wedding companies providing everything from hair-dos to flowers, catering, and photography.

They were welcomed at the first of the professional catwalk shows (accompanied by live music) by the Dean, the Very Revd Keith Jukes. And among those exhibiting was the diocese of Ripon & Leeds, demonstrating all that the Church of England can offer to those wanting to get married. In particular, they had Your Church Wedding material, with its helpful information about planning a church wedding and choosing a church, and ideas about hymns and readings.