SAME-SEX couples in Swindon can now plan for their big day thanks to the passing of a law which will allow them to get married.

The new law has been welcomed by the town’s gay community and will be celebrated during this year’s Swindon and Wiltshire Pride.

The Government’s controversial legislation on the issue received Royal Assent on Wednesday, to the delight of 18-year-old Lizzie Corbett.

Lizzie, who has been in a relationship with partner Kellie Webb, 17, for two-and-a-half years, was pleased when she heard the news and says it now gives her the option of getting married if she wants.

She said: “When I heard the news it was almost like a relief.

“It is great because from a little girl I always wanted to get married and the fact I can finally become a bride to the person I love makes me the happiest person.

“I think this decision breaks up the social divides and shows that marriage is something between two people, whether they are straight or gay.

“I think society as a whole is becoming a lot more accepting now, especially with generations growing up with it, like my nieces – they have seen me going out with a girl and that is fine to them.

“Love is love and now the world is starting to see it the same way. It is not something that you choose it is something that you are born with, I believe.”

The Conservative, Labour and Liberal Democrat leaderships all backed the proposals, which were finally approved by MPs and peers last week.

It is expected that the first gay and lesbian wedding ceremonies will take place by next summer and although Lizzie said she won’t be getting married straight away it is nice to have the option.

To mark the new law the teenager, a media make-up student at Swindon College, is designing a special creation for the Swindon and Wiltshire Pride parade on August 10.

The design will incorporate the wedding theme with two brides and the traditional wedding dresses and wedding cake.

She said: “I got asked by one of the members of the committee if I would like to do something for the parade so I have asked a friend to help and we are looking to do something with body paint.

“Now the main focus is going to be about gay marriage.

“The Pride event is great for everyone – I have been before and seen a lot of straight people also enjoying the day.”

The Swindon and Wiltshire Pride 2013 website, which will soon begin regular updates, is at www.swindonwiltshirepride.co.uk