THE COUNTY'S first gay couple to tie the knot under the Civil Partnership Act are celebrating the first anniversary of their life as partners.

Robin and Anthony Cav-anagh were one of three couples who featured in the Worcester News in December 2005 after they were married' at Worcester Register Office at County Hall. Since the law changed, enabling same-sex couples to have civil partnership ceremonies from Wed-nesday, December 21, 2005, 119 gay marriages' have taken place at register offices ar-ound Worcestershire.

The Droitwich couple said they have had a wonderful first year of marriage'.

Robin, who has taken Anthony's surname, said: "We feel more settled knowing that we have done it officially - financially and everything else." The 41-year-old hairdresser and artist added: "We have taken it all in our stride."

Anthony, a 46-year-old pain-ter and decorator, said: "It's brilliant to have been the first. Everything's wonderful."

Following the ceremony, the couple celebrated with a reception at Browns rest-aurant in Quay Street, Worcester. They spent their honeymoon in London.

Since the wedding' Anthony has also taken Robin's name as his middle name.

Sharon Duggan, a county council registrar, said: "We are really pleased with the uptake of civil partnerships. It continues to prove popular and we have number of bookings made for next year."

Droitwich couple Meridy Swann and Abba Flint and Evesham couple Michael Elliman and David Canning also featured in the paper after having civil partnership ceremonies last year. However, the Worcester News was unable to contact them.