A decision to allow people of the same sex who want to get "married" hold civil services in Swansea has been welcomed by members of the gay community.

It is hoped the move to hold commitment ceremonies at register offices in the city will provoke other local authorities around Wales to follow suit.

We wanted to show people that our relationship meant something to us and that we were a couple and it was forever

Paddy Agusta

The services, which are already held in some English counties, have no legal status.

But some gay couples say allowing relationships to be recognised will make a difference.

Paddy Agusta manages a gay bar in the city centre and has been living with Jasmine Diren in Treboeth in Swansea for nine years.

The couple had their relationship blessed five years ago at a ceremony at a house in Neath Abbey.

Paddy Agusta says it was an important statement about their relationship.

Paddy manages a gay bar in the town

"We wanted to show the outside world that we were together.

"We wanted to show people that our relationship meant something to us and that we were a couple and it was forever.

Regaling stories about their special day, Jasmine and Paddy explained that it was just like any heterosexual ceremony except that it was not recognised by law.

The couple hired a Humanist minister to carry out the service, they swapped rings, had a reception, video and photographs.

I think gay people really want is for it to be recognised by law

Jasmine Diren

They pledged their commitment to one another in front of their family and friends.

The ceremonies approved by Swansea council are intended for adult couples of any gender.

They also allow heterosexual couples, who do not wish to take the legally-binding route of marriage, to make a public commitment to one another.

Jasmine believes the decision by Swansea council is a move forward but there is still some way to go.

Law change

"It is a bit of a stigma for your relationship not to be recognised it is a big step for the council to recognise it in the way of a blessing," she said.

"I think gay people really want is for it to be recognised by law."

The couple believe that it is only a matter of time before gay "marriages" are recognised by law.

"Sooner or later I think it will made legal for same sex couples to get married," said Paddy.

"We have always called it our blessing.

"However, some people do look on it as being married and some people consider us as married."