Marriage of the Rector's Daughter - 1899

As reported in the Downham Market Gazette 5th August 1899

On Wednesday last the village put on quite a festive appearance on the occasion of the marriage of John Panting Esq MD, of Watton and Miss Lucy Agnes Partridge, daughter of the Reverend WH Partridge, the much respected Rector of this parish and Rural Dean.

Long before the time fixed for the marriage the fine old parish church was filled by the parishioners and friends of the bride including the Rev JF Spurgeon (Hockham), Rev MA Gathercole (Santon), Rev H Williams (Rockland), F Partridge (Lynn), Rev J Thorne (Norwich), Rev W Cooke (Norwich), W Dodgson esq, Dr Alexander etc.

 The pathway from the entrance gate to the church was carpeted with crimson cloth. Upon the altar stood vases of choice flowers and within the Sacrarium at either end of the altar were groups of choice flowering plants in pots.

At half past two o’clock, the bridegroom entered the church with his best man and was shortly followed by the bride leaning upon the arm of her father.  Upon arriving at the chancel steps the party took up their respective places.

The service was conducted throughout by the Rev E Blacoe, Vicar of Carbrook. The processional hymn was “Lead us Heavenly Father Lead Us” and as soon as the surpliced choir had taken their places, the first part of the office commenced. After the nupital benediction and as the bride and bridegroom proceeded to the altar steps the choir sang the “Deus Miscreator” and the remaining part of the office was said by the priest.

The beautiful marriage address as written by the late Dr Passy was then delivered followed by the singing of the hymn “Oh Father All Creating Whose Wisdom Love and Power” by the choir. While the registers were being signed in the vestry the organist plays a suitable voluntary.