A County Durham council has become the first local authority in north-east England to allow same sex "weddings".

Councillors in Darlington agreed on Tuesday to allow "commitment ceremonies" for same-sex couples.

Darlington Borough Council said it had reacted to calls from the public to offer the service to same-sex couples, who cannot legally marry in the UK.

Some church leaders have criticised the ceremonies, although the new Bishop of Durham says he has "no problem" with them.

Cannot marry

The ceremonies are designed to be a public declaration of love and dedication.

Other local authorities in the North East are expected to follow Darlington's lead.

Stephen Harker, who is in charge of public protection at the council, said: "We have responded to requests from the public to offer this kind of facility for those couples who cannot legally marry.

"We are aware that some sections are against them, but we feel that feelings on this point are changing."

Mr Harker said commitment ceremonies would be carried out in council-owned buildings, including register offices.