Ref. 29493-93CIVIL commitment ceremonies have been available to same sex couples in Swindon since the beginning of the year but nobody has expressed an interest.

Last year, the council unanimously agreed that the ceremonies should go ahead.

Although conducted by a registrar, they would carry no legal weight, but nevertheless represent a public commitment between two people.

The registrar in such circumstances would be referred to as a celebrant.

Any venue in Swindon which currently holds a licence to hold marriages is entitled to hold the ceremonies.

One such is the Blunsdon House Hotel, which hosts 40 weddings per year and is generally regarded as among the best such venues in the area.

Business development manager Sue Wilson (pictured above) said: "All ceremonies like this are a recognition of love, and we are enthusiastic about them.

"We believe we have the best facilities and exceptional service, and welcome all couples.

"We are just waiting for same sex couples to come here as well."

The hotel has been in the hands of the Clifford family for generations, and Sue said the family was in favour of offering the service.

In a civil ceremony, the partners publicly profess their devotion to and support for one another, and can also choose the words used.

As in a traditional wedding, the couple are supported by friends and loved ones.

Meanwhile, Sir Elton John has recently denied claims that he is to undergo a commitment ceremony with David Furnish, his partner of 11 years.

The ceremonies have the backing of Swindon's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Coalition, which has long lobbied for same-sex relationships to secure official recognition.

Its vice chairwoman, Sue Rowland, said: "The whole council gave its backing to civil ceremonies, and it is very exciting that the Blunsdon House Hotel, a leading Wiltshire four star hotel, is offering ceremonies.

"The coalition would encourage couples wanting ceremonies to go forward and arrange them."

The whole issue of same-sex partnership ceremonies is in the news, with the Civil Partnerships Bill currently making its way through Parliament.

If the Bill becomes law, it will grant a measure of legal protection to same sex couples in matters such as council housing and pension rights.

For example, if partners lived in council accommodation, and the person whose name was on the rent book died, their partner would have similar rights to a heterosexual spouse in similar circumstances.

Many councils, Swindon included, have a policy of looking on such cases in a sympathetic manner.

Council spokesman Gavin Calthrop said: "Although not currently under any legal obligation, we pride ourselves on being a forward-looking authority, and would attempt to deal with such a case on its merits and with understanding.

"We are also hoping same-sex couples will feel encouraged to come forward and arrange commitment ceremonies."

Barrie Hudson