City bucks marriage slump

The number of marriages in the UK has been falling for 30 years

Couples in Swansea gripped by the love bug are bucking the trend and tying the knot.

Not only is the city home to a growing number of marriages, but the popularity of watching weddings on the web is soaring too.

The number of civil marriages in the area rose 9% last year, compared to a fall across Britain of 17%.

The register office in Swansea was also one of the first in Wales to offer a live webcam service for its ceremonies.

Now the service has proved so popular that a second live camera has been installed.

Anyone can log on and watch people get married Edith Morgan, Registrar

Edith Morgan, Swansea council's superintendent registrar, said: "It is surprising how many people have got family and friends abroad.

"One camera was installed in the main marriage room a year ago but it was so popular that we recently installed one in the second room.

"It is on all the time unless a couple specifically ask for it to be turned off.

"Anyone can log on and watch people get married."

The register office in Swansea was also the first in Wales to offer commitment ceremonies as an alternative to marriage.

Since its launch some 28 gay couples have taken part in the service.

Official figures show that in 2001, there were 6.5% fewer weddings in the UK than in 2000.

That figure continued the long-term downward trend that began in 1973.