Renowned vicar and former member of The Communards, Rev Richard Coles, has accepted the role of patron at the church where he was christened and where his parents exchanged vows.
He was given the honour by the Kettering Arts Centre, in a bid to highlight his Northamptonshire roots.
Born in the region, Coles has previously showcased his talents on the stage of the Kettering Arts Centre, nestled within St Andrew's Church. Rev Tom Houston, vicar of St Andrew's, expressed his immense joy at Coles embracing this honour.
Houston said: "We were just over the moon and delighted when he accepted.
"His support is just incredible."
The Kettering Arts Centre, a venue that has welcomed performances by local talents including James Acaster, Jack Dee, Rosie Jones, and Josh Widdecombe, is currently undergoing an impressive £300,000 redevelopment. This transformation includes the construction of a new stage and the installation of underfloor heating.
In a performance titled "Borderline National Trinket," Coles, affectionately referred to by this nickname from his late husband David, captivated audiences in a sold-out one-man show. Following this triumphant event, he agreed to become the inaugural patron of the Kettering Arts Centre.
"Rev Coles embodies the values of the Kettering Arts Centre, namely arts and faith," the centre said.
"His passion for championing the arts is a privilege to Kettering Arts Centre."