A County hall has always been the bridesmaid, but never the bride, when it comes to hosting weddings.

But a couple from Brandon, near Durham City, will break the tradition when they tie the knot on November 17.

Durham County Hall was licensed to hold civil weddings 18 months ago, but it is still waiting to hold its first ceremony.

Vicky Terrell, 21, and Michael Carter, 35, of Dunelm Court, Brandon, heard about its plight and decided it was the venue for them.

The ceremony will take place in the council chamber, followed by a reception in the hall's restaurant.

Miss Terrell said: "We saw on the television that no one had had their wedding there, so we thought we might as well be the first.

"It's a really lovely place and it is good that you can have the ceremony and the reception under one roof."

David Dixon, the council's public services manager, said: "It's fantastic that County Hall has it's first wedding and I hope it's the first of many.

"County Hall may not immediately spring to mind for couples embarking on wedded life, but we can offer the complete wedding package. The building really is the ideal venue for that special day."

In addition to four register offices in the county, County Hall is one of 24 premises approved for marriage, including the Bowes Museum, at Barnard Castle, and Beamish Hall.

For more details about wedding bookings contact 0191-383 3000 or visit Durham County Council's website at www.durham.gov.uk