Over 1,000 people gathered in person or online at Leicester Cathedral on Sunday 8 February 2026 for a landmark service marking 450 years since the first dated use of sign language in England, which took place at St Martin’s Church (now Leicester Cathedral) in 1576.

Church records document how Thomas Tilsye, who experienced both hearing loss and was nonspeaking, used signs to express his consent during his marriage to Ursula Russel. This moment – noted in the parish register – remains the earliest known account of sign language being used in an English church service and stands as a significant example of early inclusive worship.

The commemorative service honoured this legacy by being led throughout in British Sign Language (BSL).

The sermon, readings, and prayers were all delivered in BSL and voiced for hearing members of the congregation. The guest preacher was the Revd Canon Cathy Nightingale, who preached in BSL. The service also featured contributions from a visiting signing choir from the Church of the Good Shepherd, a ministry for people with hearing loss within the Diocese of Leicester. 

A signing Choir from the Church of the Good Shepherd, a ministry for people with hearing loss within the Diocese of Leicester, who contributed to the worship in the service.
Photo credit Stephen Iliffe / Deaf Mosaic

The service was attended by over 200 worshippers from across Leicester, Leicestershire and beyond, reflecting the depth of interest in this historic anniversary and the Cathedral’s growing commitment to accessibility. More than 800 people have watched the service live-stream, which remains available to view for one month on the Cathedral YouTube channel.

The Very Revd Karen Rooms, Dean of Leicester, said: ‘It was a privilege to experience a service led in British Sign Language, where the oral tradition came second. This was both humbling and profound, and we hope to repeat this in the future. We are committed to explore the ways in which people of all abilities, backgrounds and experiences can lead us as we encounter God here at Leicester Cathedral – and to ensuring that the Cathedral is a place where everyone can be welcomed, belong and worship.’

This anniversary service marks the first milestone in Leicester Cathedral’s year‑long focus on ‘Access’, during which the Cathedral will continue to explore new ways of ensuring that people of every ability, background and experience can encounter and participate fully in its life, worship and events.

In terms of future plans for the Diocese, these include the summer exhibition Seeking the Disabled Christ (a collection of prints by Rachel Holdforth depicting Jesus Christ in solidarity with all humanity), and a Leicester City Council Heritage board to commemorate the 450-year-old story of Thomas Tilsye and Ursula Russel (also planned for summer 2026). The Cathedral is also currently seeking funding to develop community-led projects to further engage people with their story.

Watch the service at Leicester Cathedral here.