The original is on FMP. Her signature is very shaky but it is definitely not HURST. The first letter is F. To me it looks like Fairest but the dot above the i is exaggerated into a line which could lead the reader to read the first letter as H not F.
As a general point, the vicar or registrar would write down the names of the two parties and he would write what he hears.
FairHurst is clear, but what if the person was Fairhurst but dropped their H?
Try saying Fairhurst but drop the H. The hearer would hear Fairest.
That is the difference between Fairhurst and Fairest, just a dropped H.
No need to look for any other interpretation. It is not how the family spelt it, it was how they pronounced it in times when most were illiterate.
Dave
Your probably right...the Yorkshire accent. I can always remember although my father lived in Kent he could always drop into the Yorkshire accent when we went back to Oughtibridge, Regards
ELAINE
May I suggest you remove the bit about HURST. The original is on FMP
FAIREST, Ruth (Spinster, age ~, ~, residing at of this Parish).
Married John MARSDEN, on May 6, 1827, by Thomas Sutton (Banns) at
Sheffield Parish Church, Church Street, Sheffield. Father's name is ~ (~).
Married in the presence of James Ingham,Joseph Hudson.
Notes: Bride signed Ruth HURST.
Page No: 88 Reg No: 264
Dave