HAPPINESS filled the air when the first Wyre Forest couple cemented their love for one another in a same-sex wedding style ceremony at Kidderminster register office.

Diane Pearson, 57, and Mandy Bonner, 40, of Lea Street, exchanged vows in front of family and friends in a low-key ceremony on Wednesday, December 21.

The devoted couple - who have been together for six years - held a buffet reception at Mandy's mother's house after their civil partnership ceremony on the first day same-sex unions become legal in England and Wales.

Mandy, a self-employed craft worker, said she was relieved they could show the world how much they cared for one another.

Speaking after the ceremony, she said: "We were both very nervous but the day went very well. Our family and friends stood by us while we exchanged rings and made our vows. My sister in Bournemouth was unable to attend but was able to watch the ceremony which was filmed and shown on the internet."

The Civil Partnership Act, which came into force on December 5, enables same-sex couples to obtain legal recognition for their relationship.

Diane, a mother of two, met Mandy while walking her dog in 1999. She believes the Civil Partnership Act is an important milestone and hopes other same-sex couples will follow their lead.

She added: "We're very happy with one another. We've been together for a few years but this is actually showing the world that we love each other and it's a firm commitment. This is my third wedding but I know this is the right choice."

Worcestershire County Council confirmed six other couples across the county also had a civil partnership ceremony on the first available day of December 21.