Jane and Ryan said the way in which they met “echoed a wartime story”
Pickering Town CIC and Eden Camp ran the 1940s themed wedding competition(Image: Submitted)
A couple who met through an armed forces pen pal website during the pandemic when the groom was serving overseas were “over the moon” to win their dream 1940s-themed wedding. Jane Gordon and Ryan Thompson tied the knot after winning Eden Camp and Pickering Town CIC’s Back to the 1940s wedding competition. Their application stood out due to their strong family ties to the military – and, of course, the way in which they met.
Jane and Ryan said the way in which they met “echoed a wartime story” due to having long periods apart and having to communicate by letter. Jane’s grandparents also had first-hand experience of serving in the Polish army and being evacuated to Yorkshire during WWII.
The couple, who had already married, renewed their vows in a ceremony on October 10 at St Peter and Paul’s Church in Pickering before being whisked away through town in a vintage car. They continued their celebrations at Eden Camp’s Heritage Hall. They were selected due to their families’ connections to the military, showing resilience through personal challenges.
Jane was raised by her grandparents, whose own wartime experiences inspired a lifelong interest in the Second World War. Her grandfather served in the Polish Army, and after being unable to return home following the conflict, rebuilt his life in England. Her grandmother had been evacuated to North Yorkshire during the war.
Jane and Ryan said: “We’re absolutely over the moon to have been chosen. The 1940s have always been incredibly special to us because of our family history, our love of living history events, and the military connections that have shaped both our lives. Our own relationship began with long periods apart, exchanging messages overseas, which in many ways echoed a wartime story. This vow renewal will give us the chance to celebrate our journey, honour our grandparents, and create special memories with our family and friends.”
Luke Hudman, marketing manager at Eden Camp, said: “ The winning entry perfectly captured everything we hoped the competition would celebrate – a love of history and a personal connection to the wartime generation. We were delighted to be able to give them the opportunity to renew their vows.”
Carrie Brackstone, operations manager at Pickering Town CIC, said: “Their family’s wartime story spans generations and countries and the celebration was a truly memorable day that celebrated their love story and history.” The special day coincided with Eden Camp’s Back to the 1940s weekend, a two-day event that invites visitors to step back in time and experience the spirit, sights, and sounds of wartime Britain. Find out more about Eden Camp and to book tickets.
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