That loving feeling (From Gazette & Herald)

That loving feeling

COUPLES in North Yorkshire will have a new way to show their commitment to each other.

In partnership with the private sector, Civil Ceremonies Ltd, the registration service in North Yorkshire, is to offer adult couples a chance to make a public declaration of their life-long commitment in front of their family and friends.

The ceremonies are available to both same sex couples and to adult couples of the opposite sex who are not married, and whilst they have no legal significance or standing, it is one way the couple can express their dedication to each other.

The ceremonies will be held both at the register offices and at any of the many approved venues across the county. They can be tailored so that the couples can create their own meaningful celebration by selecting words, poems, readings and music.

Coun Carl Les, North Yorkshire County Council's executive member for the registration service, said: "We know there are many thousands of couples who are in long-term committed relationships who have not had a chance to declare that commitment in a very personal way. This is one way we can help couples cement their relationships."

Updated: 10:39 Wednesday, November 26, 2003