Vintage wedding dresses displayed in church as tribute to love

A collection of vintage and modern-day wedding dresses has gone on display in a church in Somerset as part of a celebration of love and marriage.

The dresses, the earliest dating from the 1940s, have been donated to West Monkton Church by former brides.

Visitors can also browse the church marriage registers from 1710 onwards.

The gowns, many of which were worn in the church, are accompanied by a photo of the couple and "emotions cannot help but be stirred," the organiser said.

"With a classic car parked outside, tea and cakes served on vintage china and a warm, happy atmosphere in the air, we hope to encourage anyone who would like a sentimental walk down memory lane to come and view this display, whilst reading memories from our blushing brides," organiser Kate Ayres continued.

The highlights of the exhibition include two silk dresses from the 1940s, a red wedding dress and dresses from three generations of the same family.

Ten mannequins have been loaned by Bridgwater & Taunton College's Fashion & Textiles Department to display the collection.

"Beside each [vintage wedding dress] sits a photograph of the fresh-faced and hopeful couple setting out on their journey in life together," Ms Ayres added.

She said the dresses were still being offered to her "right up to the eleventh hour" before going on display from 20 April.

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