Match of the Day pundit Shay Given married his long-term partner Rebecca Gibson at Westminster Abbey on Saturday, having secured special permission from the Royal Family. The Archbishop of Canterbury also granted the couple permission to use the historic London venue, according to the Daily Mail.
The former Newcastle and Manchester City goalkeeper's BBC links played no part in securing access. Instead, it was the bride's family connections that made the wedding possible, as her grandfather, Donald Buttress, served as Surveyor of the Fabric of Westminster Abbey from 1988 to 1999. Rebecca's grandparents briefly resided at the Abbey during 1998 and 1999.
Family ties to the Abbey
Rebecca previously shared on Instagram about her "beautiful memories growing up" at the location during her childhood. Her architect grandfather arranged the necessary permissions for her and Given to exchange vows in the distinguished setting.
Typically, weddings at Westminster Abbey are restricted to Royal Family members, precinct inhabitants or members of the Order of Bath, along with their offspring. Mr Buttress' association satisfied the requirements.
Grandfather's legacy
Rebecca, who has adopted Given's surname, marked a book authored by her grandfather in October 2022, the launch of which occurred at the Abbey. "So very proud of my grandfather today as we celebrated his legacy and the launch of his new book at Westminster Abbey," she posted at the time. "There are so many beautiful memories growing up here, so grateful for his influence in our life and our family."
Beyond his work at Westminster Abbey, Mr Buttress' other London projects include the Queen Mother Memorial in The Mall. He was appointed a Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order (LVO) in 1997 before being awarded his OBE 11 years later.
The wedding day
Given wore a classically elegant tuxedo, while his partner of 13 years wore a lace-sleeved gown created by New York-based wedding couture specialist Tom Sebastien. Former Republic of Ireland teammate Robbie Keane was amongst those present at the ceremony.
The couple's two daughters, 10-year-old Gracie and nine-year-old Cassie, acted as bridesmaids during the service. Given's daughter from his previous marriage to Jane Cunningham, 19-year-old Sienna, also participated in the bridal party.
