Shay Given married Rebecca Gibson at Westminster Abbey on Saturday after receiving special permission from the Royal Family. The Match of the Day pundit and former Newcastle and Manchester City goalkeeper wed his long-time partner at the iconic London landmark, with the Archbishop of Canterbury also giving the couple his blessing, according to the Daily Mail.
Family ties secured the venue
It was Gibson's family connections that secured access to the exclusive venue, not Given's BBC links. Her grandfather, Donald Buttress, served as Surveyor of the Fabric of Westminster Abbey between 1988 and 1999. Gibson's grandparents even lived at the Abbey for a short spell between 1998 and 1999.
Gibson once wrote on Instagram about her "beautiful memories growing up" at the site as a child. Her architect grandfather was able to arrange special dispensation for the couple to exchange vows in such an exclusive setting.
Wedding details and guests
Weddings at Westminster Abbey are normally reserved for members of the Royal Family, precinct residents or members of the Order of Bath (and their children). Buttress' link apparently met the criteria.
Gibson, who has taken Given's last name, celebrated a book written by her grandfather in October 2022, the release of which took place at the Abbey. She used the opportunity to reflect on her own history inside those walls, writing: "So very proud of my grandfather today as we celebrated his legacy and the launch of his new book at Westminster Abbey. There are so many beautiful memories growing up here, so grateful for his influence in our life and our family."
Family and celebrations
Buttress' other London designs include the Queen Mother Memorial in The Mall. He was made a Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order (LVO) in 1997 before receiving his OBE 11 years later.
Given wore a classic tuxedo, while Gibson wore a lace-sleeved dress designed by New York-based wedding couture specialist Tom Sebastien. Former Republic of Ireland team-mate Robbie Keane was among the attendees. The couple's two daughters, 10-year-old Gracie and nine-year-old Cassie, served as bridesmaids, alongside Given's 19-year-old daughter Sienna from his previous marriage to Jane Cunningham.
