A double celebration

Buy photos» Newly-weds Rachael and Richard Hubbard with newly-christened son Max and Rev Jo Musson. Picture supplied by www.colour-art.net/

Harriet Ernstsons

08 September. Updated: 08 September 14:28

AN OAKENSHAW couple added an extra element to their wedding day when they decided to get their two-month-old son christened at the same time.

Rachael and Richard Hubbard, both 21 and of High Trees Close, had always planned to get married but decided to delay the day after falling pregnant with son Max. As they wanted him christened, they enquired at The Bridge (St Luke's) in Headless Cross whether the two ceremonies could take place on Saturday (September 3).

Rachael told The Standard: "When we told our guests they all said what a good idea it was. It definitely made the day more special as it was not just about us, it was about our whole family."

Max was carried down the aisle by bridesmaid and Rachael's sister Jessica Ennis, who was joined by bridesmaid Louise Till, Richard's niece, and page boy David Ennis, Rachael's brother. Richard's brother Matthew completed the best man's duties while her father Michael gave Rachael away. The couple are going away for a long weekend and plan to take their honeymoon when Max is older.

Rev Jo Musson said: "Having a wedding and baptism combined into one service is extremely unusual but it is all perfectly legal. It is the first time we have done a service like this and I am sure the first time it's ever happened at this church. Perhaps we will see more couples requesting it in the future.

"I guess it makes sense while you have got all the family together to have both services in one and just have the one party."