30-year wait finally over

Peter Saunders and Robert Nunn, both in their 50s, took advantage of new laws introduced this week that allowed same-sex couples to form civil partnerships.

They were among five couples to exchange rings on the first day of the new laws at Chiltern Hills register office in High Wycombe.

Mr Saunders, a retired marketing executive, said: "This is something we have been waiting for since we got together on November 4, 1975.

"It's about time Tony Blair did something right."

The couple were joined at the register office by family and friends for the service, conducted by registrar Rhona Caretti.

Mr Nunn, a retired jeweller, was delighted with how the day went.

He said: "I thought it was very good. I thought they took our feelings into consideration and it was friendly and kind.

"Rhona has been brilliant it is all new to her as well.

"Our friends have been so supportive. We have had people travel right across the country to be here today."

The couple, both wearing white suit jackets, entered the register office to the sound of What A Difference A Day Makes.

Mr Nunn said: "The song is very appropriate for today. This a day that has made a big difference."

After waiting so long to have civil partnerships recognised in law, Mr Saunders said they did not want to wait a day longer than necessary.

He said: "When we knew the law was coming in we started to think about it and have been waiting for the go-ahead."

The ceremonies have proved controversial, with some religious figures condemning the practice.

However Mr Nunn shrugged off the criticism.

He said: "Everyone is entitled to their opinion. Not everyone is going to agree with everything."

The couple are celebrating Christmas with Mr Nunn's parents before jetting off on their honeymoon to Gran Canaria in January.

So far 29 couples have registered an interest in having a civil partnership ceremony in the county, with 17 booked at Chiltern Hills.