08/02/2026
This afternoon at Leicester Cathedral there will be a beautiful service signed in BSL.
450 years ago, a wedding took place in St Martin’s Church, now of course Leicester Cathedral, between Thomas Tillsye and Ursula Russel.
Thomas could neither hear nor speak so he used different signs to show his intent to marry. These were recorded on the marriage certificate, becoming the first recorded use of sign language in England.
On Sunday afternoon we shall hold a service celebrating the 450th anniversary, using sign language throughout, not just to translate what is said or sung by others but to take a leading role – the sermon, readings and prayers will all be led in sign language and voiced over for the benefit of the hearing members of the congregation.
We are celebrating this anniversary not just because it is a lovely story or a good thing to do, but because it is an opportunity for us to seek to connect with deaf people and to work in partnership with those who use sign language on a daily basis. All are welcome to join us!
📅 Sunday 8 February, 3.30pm
📷 A scan, from Leicestershire Records Office, of the marriage record of Thomas Tilsye and Ursula Russel from Baptisms, Banns, Marriage, Burials 1556–1800.
