THE final wedding ceremony to take place at Yeomanry House saw a Nepalese couple tie the knot.

Robert Bishowkarma and Barsha Rasaily exchanged vows at the historic venue on November 11, signalling the end of an era for the Grade II listed building.

Thousands of events have taken place at the venue over the years, including weddings, baby naming ceremonies and vow renewals.

Councillor Jason Brock, lead member for Corporate and Consumer Services, said: “I would like to wish Robert and Barsha, the last couple to get married at Yeomanry House, the best of luck for their future lives together.

"Yeomanry House has seen thousands of ceremonies in Reading over the years and, as a result, is very special to many families."

The Register Office is set to operate as normal from its current location at Yeomanry House until November 30, after which it will move to three new locations.

Reading Town Hall will now host weddings in the new ceremony room from December 8, while the first citizenship ceremonies will be held from December 12.

It is hoped the venue will provide an attractive and historic setting and people will have the option to webcast their ceremony for the first time.

Cllr Brock added: “From December, the register office’s move and the new ceremony venue will offer an improved service for residents.

"As well as better accessibility, the beautiful town hall building has stunning architectural features that are full of history, making it the perfect backdrop for a special big day.

"The close proximity to the Forbury and Abbey Ruins ensures plenty of spectacular photo opportunities for the happy couple and their guests.

"I am also delighted we can offer the ability to webcast the service across the globe.”

As part of the transformation of the town hall, visitors can expect to see upgraded toilets and the reconfiguration of the reception area.

The investment at the town hall links to the wider regeneration of the Abbey Quarter, including the newly re-opened Abbey Ruins and improved information points across the town centre.