The iconic Raquel Welch made a brief and memorable visit to Bolton Abbey for the marriage blessing of her son and cricketing legend Freddie Troon's daughter.
The event was worldwide news.
A media circus, including over 50 photographers, waited patiently outside Bolton Priory Church on 5 June 1991, along with a crowd of around 500 people.
The couple had actually married a year earlier in Los Angeles in front of two witnesses – and then attended a ceremony near Truman's home in Frasby for what appeared to be a “quiet religious ceremony” in a parish church. St Mary and St Cuthbert had come to Bolton Abbey, but along with the groom's mother, the star of films like One Million BC and The Three Musketeers, the quiet It was held that it was something other than an event.
Sadly, the couple broke up a year later. At the time, Truman was struggling: “That marriage didn't last until my run.”
Raquel Welch arrived late, behind the bride and groom, and announced to the assembled crowd of family, friends, including actors Diane Keene, Carol Vorderman, and several cricket stars. I'm afraid we're badly behind. ”
Accompanied by designer Robert Moore, who was staying at the Devonshire Arms Hotel, she arrived in a white Mercedes car and was seen wearing a hugging black dress, the Herald reported.
“It was short, tight and revealing, and the woman in it knew it would be a thrill,” said our reporter. “That was true, there were no wrinkles.
Once everyone was inside the church, reporters pooled their notes and spectators pooled their opinions.
“Some said the dress was not appropriate for a wedding. Some said she looked stunning over 50 years old. They said they came to see Truman, not Raquel.” .
Some in the crowd expressed disapproval of the star's “dramatic” entrance, commenting that she “tried to take all the limelight” and how it meant “she was late and after the bride.” Others commented that the Herald was either “drooling or jealous.”
Rebecca later remarried to a film editor in 1998 and they had two children.
She later told the Daily Express that she had no problem with her mother-in-law's glamorous outfit and that her father saw the funny side of the commentary.
And at least Raquel hasn't worn a fur bikini since 1 million BC.
Joan Robertson, from Carlton, said she looked “absolutely gorgeous” and responded well to photographers. Even today, someone at that day's ceremony remembers her as “absolutely amazing.”
It was a day to remember for Sutton's Carol Richardson. Mrs Richardson was celebrating her 84th birthday and on the way to the Devonshire Arms Hotel for the reception, Rebecca leaned out of the car, waved and wished her a happy birthday. And her idol Raquel gave her special waves.
Hollywood icon Raquel Welch passed away in 2023 at the age of 82.
