Flintshire ‘tin chapel’ to host weddings for first time in 125 years

The Church of the Good Shepherd in Drury, near Buckley, has been granted permission to hold marriage ceremonies by the Bishop of St Asaph, the Rt Revd Gregory Cameron.

This marks a new chapter for the church, affectionately known as the 'tin chapel,' which was built in 1899 as a daughter church to St Matthew’s in Buckley.

The Revd Jenny Clarke, priest-in-charge at the Church of the Good Shepherd, said: "The congregation at Good Shepherd and the local community are very proud of the history and heritage of their tin chapel.

"There are very few churches like this left so ensuring that Good Shepherd can provide all the services that communities need is really important.

"The tin chapel has a special atmosphere and is cosy and comfortable inside, perfect for an intimate wedding ceremony.

"Many in the local community have strong connections to the church through baptism, Sunday school or family, so being able to offer weddings too will help more people experience this special church."

Preparation work is underway at The Church of the Good Shepherd in Drury (Image: Supplied)

Traditionally, special services such as weddings were held at St Matthew’s, but the change now allows couples to marry at the Good Shepherd.

The church will hold its first Church in Wales wedding at the end of October, with Charlie and Zoe from the village set to tie the knot on Saturday, October 31.

Revd Jenny Clarke has spoken about the historic moment (Image: Supplied)

Revd Clarke said: "The whole congregation is looking forward to this occasion, and everyone is working hard to ensure the church looks its very best for this special event."

Anyone living in the Rhos a Mynydd Mission Area or with a qualifying connection can get married at the Church of the Good Shepherd.

The Mission Area covers Buckley, Ewloe, Penymynydd, Hope, Llanfynydd, Penyffordd, Mynydd Isa, and surrounding areas.

Rhos a Mynydd is one of 20 Mission Areas in the Diocese of St Asaph and forms part of the Church in Wales.

Further information about the Mission Area or the Church of the Good Shepherd is available at https://e-voice.org.uk/rhosamynydd/.