Star Wars superfans exchange vows in Pontypridd ceremony

The couple married 20 years ago, but wanted a Star Wars-themed religious ceremony

A pair of Star Wars superfans have exchanged religious vows in a ceremony themed around the blockbuster films.

Tina and Kevin Rankin, from Pontypridd, Rhondda Cynon Taf, got married 20 years ago, but wanted a service in a church not so far, far away.

The ceremony at St Catherine's was officiated by the Reverend Charlotte Ruston, dressed as character Kylo Ren.

She said: "Being a massive Star Wars fan myself, there was never any danger of me saying no this wedding."

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The Reverend Charlotte Ruston says there was never any danger of her saying no to the Star Wars-themed wedding

"The whole day was full of fun and laughter. When Jesus talked about the fullness of life, I think that he was referring to days like this," Ms Ruston added.

St Catherine's was transformed from a traditional Anglican church into a Star Wars-inspired setting for the ceremony.

Mr Rankin is a member of the UK Garrison of the 501 Legion, an international Star Wars fan organisation.

Their members describe themselves as "bad guys doing good". Members dress as the villains from the Galactic Empire to raise funds for charity.

Tina and Kevin originally got married in a register office, but transformed the church into a Star Wars-themed setting

The couple were keen to include the Garrison in their wedding blessing.

"We are thankful for everyone at St Catherine's for helping us renew our wedding vows in a style which reflected not only our faith, but also our personalities and hobbies as well," Ms Rankin said.

"The whole day was full of joy and merriment. It was definitely a day no one will forget. We feel really blessed."

'Bit of fun'

Ms Rankin explained that when they got married in 2005, the only say Kevin had was the venue. They always joked that when they renewed their vows, she would have the say on the venue and everything else would be his call.

"It's a bit of fun after a rough couple of years."

Mr Rankin said with beautiful weather, friends and family who could make it, and the Garrison, it was "all he could have hoped for".

"It was a fun day, and people were totally open to dress up, some had costumes and some just had t-shirts.

"It just goes to show, you don't have to colour in the same lines as everyone else, you can break with tradition and do things that are personal to yourself."