Mary, of Godmanchester, was being ordained as a church deacon at Ely Cathedral on Saturday.

Unbeknown to her, son Robin – who has been serving in Afghanistan as a translator in the 2nd Battalion Parachute Regiment – had been making a desperate race against the clock to get to the ceremony.

He landed at RAF Brize Norton at 10.30am that morning, and made the cathedral just minutes after the service begun.

Mary was unaware he had arrived until the peace – where members of the congregation greet each other.
Mary said she was "totally overwhelmed" after spotting him and gave him a big hug.

Robin said the journey had been nerve- wracking but the trip had been worth the effort. He added: "It was great to get back to see mum get ordained.

"After the plane landed I was confident that I would arrive on time."
A private party at the Jepp's new house in Godmanchester gave time for mother and son to make up for lost time.

Canadian born Mary has now taken up her new role as curate to Rev David Busk at the Church of St Mary the Virgin in Godmanchester.
Mary said: "I'm really looking forward to starting work in the parish here in Godmanchester."

The curacy lasts between three and four years, with Mary spending a year as a Deacon, followed by an ordination as a Priest. After curacy, Mary will be able to move on to other opportunities within the church.