The 450-year-old love story in Sign Language
The first recorded use of sign language in England at Leicester Cathedral
450 years ago the first recorded use of sign language in England took place at a wedding in Leicester Cathedral.
This was a true love story where Thomas Tilsye, who could neither hear nor speak, gave his wedding vows in sign to his beloved, Ursula Russel.
Leicester Cathedral held a commemorative service on Sunday the 8th of February 2026 to honour the 450-year-old legacy.
Reporter: Ben Jackson
Producer: Andrew Fewster
IMAGE: Getty Images
Contributors: Reverend Canon Emma Davies, the Canon Precentor at Leicester Cathedral & Pam Sly from the Leicester Deaf Action Group
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