Gay and lesbian couples from across England are being urged to come to Brighton and Hove to book places on the country's first "pink wedding" waiting list.

Brighton and Hove City Council is organising the drive in a bid to become the UK's flagship city for gay weddings.

The Government plans to offer legal status for same-sex couples under the Civil Partnership Bill.

Couples wanting to book their weddings will be offered advice about the Bill and commitment ceremonies by a celebrant from Brighton register office.

Council chief executive David Panter said: "The waiting list is a way for same-sex couples to demonstrate both their commitment to each other and their support for the Bill."

Council leader Ken Bodfish added: "As well as Brighton and Hove couples, we want to encourage gay and lesbian couples from across England and Wales to come because they will then be able to have a pink wedding in the city when the law changes."

Couples signing the waiting list will be automatically entered into a contest to win a two-night stay at the De Vere Grand hotel in Kings Road, Brighton.

The waiting list will be launched at Brighton Town Hall in Bartholomew Square on July 9 at 12pm.

Surrey-based Commitment Pink Weddings is to hold a gay wedding fair in November.