BLACKBURN has become the gay "wedding" capital of Lancashire -- and same-sex ceremonies are boosting the local economy.

Around 15 couples have so far taken part in the commitment ceremonies -- which carry no legal weight -- since they were introduced at Blackburn with Darwen Council's register offices.

The council was among the first outside London to introduce the services.

Now gay couples contacting Lancashire County Council and Blackpool Council, the other two authorities in Lancashire which run register offices, are being directed to Blackburn or Darwen for the ceremonies.

The area has benefited from the pink pound, with people booking hotel rooms and receptions.

A spokesman for the council said: "So far, 15 commitment ceremonies have been held since last summer and it is a service we are happy to provide."

The service costs £90 during the week and £120 at weekends if held at either Blackburn Register Office, or Darwen Town Hall. But registrars can also be hired to carry out the services at any venue which has a wedding licence within the borough.

When contacting the register office, couples are guided through options for their service, including choosing readings, drawing up vows and deciding whether to exchange rings..

The council also works with a company called Civil Ceremonies Ltd.

A spokesman said: "A commitment ceremony is a meaningful and dignified ceremony for adult couples. The purpose of the ceremony is to make a public declaration of life-long commitment, love and dedication between two people."