The Revd Paul Goodridge, Rector of St Nicholas' Church, Church Lane, Godstone, feared the worst when freezing morning temperatures and icy roads awaited those attending a special 'Valentine Renewal of Vows' service at the beautiful village church – itself a popular venue for weddings – on Sunday 12th February.

"It was a bitterly cold morning," said Paul, "but I should have had more faith in the power of love, as we had a wonderful turnout of couples and families, young and old to celebrate and renew their wedding vows at this especially romantic time of year.

"We invited all couples who have married in our church over the last few years to attend and it was lovely to see so many of them, supported by friends and family. The period around Valentine's Day is a great opportunity for a reminder of how important our wedding vows are to a happy and successful married life," added Paul. "There is a real message of faith, hope and love to remember for all those who have made a commitment to marriage. Love that is unconditional and helps us through an often complicated life – just as God's love for us is unconditional, He knows that we are far from perfect but he still loves us."

Fifteen couples from the 150-strong congregation renewed their wedding vows at the altar during the specially prepared service. Then, in place of the traditional wedding reception, a wedding cake was shared over coffee and conversation, cut by the longest-married couple and the most recent. Sixty years separated the wedding vows of Pat and Len Lelliott from Godstone (married 1950) and those of Amy and Andrew Rogers from London (married 2010) – but on Sunday, a simple and moving service brought them together.

To find out more about church weddings visit www.yourchurchwedding.org. St Nicholas' Church is a popular venue for marriages and can provide all kinds of help in planning for your special day. A new helpful leaflet and information is available on request from the church office on 01883 742354.