Roger Lewis (57) and Keith Willmott-Goodall (64) first met on Eastbourne seafront 14 years ago.  Roger said: “We have waited so long for today – it really means the world to us both.  Like so many other couples, today is all about demonstrating our love for each other by making an official commitment in front of our family and friends.”

The historical event, held in the marriage room at Brighton & Hove Register Office, was witnessed live by over 300 people including the couples’ guests and dignitaries such as Meg Munn MP, Minister for Equality, who gave a brief welcome speech prior to the official signing.

Meg Munn said: “I am proud to be here in Brighton today and proud to be part of a Government who introduced this groundbreaking piece of legislation.  Today really is a day to celebrate, for too long same-sex couples have found their relationships invisible in the eyes of the law but I am pleased to say this will no longer be the case. 

“From today civil partners will have the legal recognition that married couples enjoy and I know that for many couples who have been together for years, this comes not a moment too soon.   I am sure that Brighton & Hove City council will look forward to welcoming many more couples for Civil Partnerships in the years to come.”

Brighton & Hove Register Office is holding 15 civil partnership ceremonies today, has 198 booked until the end of December and has over 500 bookings in total for civil partnerships so far in 2006, which firmly establishes Brighton & Hove as the country’s gay capital.

Linda Holm, Brighton & Hove’s Superintendent Registrar, said: “We have been inundated with bookings for civil partnership ceremonies and we are thrilled that couples are choosing Brighton & Hove as the place they want to tie the knot.

“This morning was an amazing experience for me and my colleagues as well as for the couples.  I was so proud to be part of this momentous occasion and to be able to witness three couples make their partnerships official.”