A CHAPEL is to re-open for just one day to fulfill the romantic dreams of a transatlantic couple.

The dilapidated building will stage their wedding in June - six months after its doors officially closed due to mounting repair bills and a dwindling congregation.

When Adele Marston and fiance Paul Palmer, who live in Boston, US, chose to marry at Laverton Methodist Chapel, near Ripon, North Yorkshire, its closure had not been announced.

The last official service will be held on January 20, but the couple have been assured by Methodist Minister the Reverend Stuart Ellis that they will still be able to say "I do".

Miss Marston's family has strong links with the little place of worship stretching back to 1937.

Her mother, Sheila, was once a stalwart of the choir and the bride-to-be went to the Sunday school.

Sheila Marston, who still lives in North Yorkshire, said: "They really did want to get married at Laverton because of the family links with the chapel, but became even more determined after looking round.

"We just hope that during its closure the chapel organ doesn't deteriorate too much."

But if that does happen, the couple say they would still go ahead, and use a piano.

Miss Marston, who is 28 and a former pupil at Ripon Grammar School, met her husband-to-be while studying at Oxford University. She gained a degree in biochemistry, he in physics, and the pair are now doing post doctorate research.

Mr Palmer, 27, is originally from Staines in Middlesex, but has taken a shine to the village of Laverton and nearby Kirkby Malzeard, where his future in-laws live.

Mr Ellis said because of the family's long links with the chapel, he would be pleased to re-open the building for their wedding.

Its long-term future is not yet certain, but some believe it could be converted into a home.