BBC MOTD pundit 'given special permission from Royal Family' to marry at exclusive venue

BBC MOTD pundit 'given special permission from Royal Family' to marry at exclusive venue The Match of the Day pundit had to get special dispensation from the Royal Family to wed at an iconic UK landmark It doesn't hurt to have friends in high places as Premier League icon Shay Given married his long-time partner in an exclusive establishment. The Match of the Day pundit wed his new wife, Rebecca Gibson, at Westminster Abbey on Saturday, after receiving special permission from the Royal Family. The Daily Mail reported the Archbishop of Canterbury also gave the happy couple his blessing to use the London landmark. But rather than ex-Newcastle and Manchester City goalkeeper Given's BBC connections playing any role, it was his other half's family ties that got their foot through the iconic doors. That's because her grandfather, Donald Buttress, served as Surveyor of the Fabric of Westminster Abbey between 1988 and 1999. Rebecca's grandparents even lived at the Abbey for a short spell between 1998 and 1999. She once wrote on Instagram about her "beautiful memories growing up" at the site as a child. And her architect grandfather was able to pull the right strings to get special dispensation for her and Given to recite their vows in such an exclusive setting. JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest news, analysis and much more on Mirror Football's Facebook page Usually, weddings at Westminster Abbey are reserved for members of the Royal Family, precinct residents or members of the Order of Bath (and their children). Mr Buttress' link apparently met the criteria as Given and Gibson said "I do" in a majestic manner. Rebecca, who has taken Given's last name, celebrated a book written by her grandfather in October 2022, the release of which took place at the Abbey. And she used the opportunity to open up on her own history spent inside those walls. "So very proud of my grandfather today as we celebrated his legacy and the launch of his new book at Westminster Abbey," she wrote at the time. "There are so many beautiful memories growing up here, so grateful for his influence in our life and our family." In addition to his contributions in Westminster Abbey, Mr Buttress' other London designs include the Queen Mother Memorial in The Mall. He was made a Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order (LVO) in 1997 before receiving his OBE 11 years later. The newlyweds looked the part as they walked arm in arm for the first time as a married couple. Given wore a classically stylish tuxedo, while his partner of 13 years wore a luxurious, lace-sleeved dress designed by New York-based wedding couture specialist Tom Sebastien. Given's former Republic of Ireland team-mate Robbie Keane was among those in attendance at the ceremony. The Givens' two daughters, 10-year-old Gracie and nine-year-old Cassie, served as bridesmaids during the ceremony. Shay's daughter from his previous marriage to Jane Cunningham, 19-year-old Sienna, also joined in the bridal party. Join our WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.