The rules which restricted where people could marry changed in 1995 and since then it has been a case of any time, any place, anywhere for couples with an eye for originality.

But this doesn't mean you can literally marry anywhere. You have to find yourselves a building that has been deemed 'seemly and dignified' by a superintendent registrar.

The venue also has to be permanent - so boats without fixed moorings are out - open to the public and unconnected in any way with religion.

Don't be downhearted however if you really want to marry under the setting sun in your favourite spot in the Dales or swinging from bungee elastic under a hovering helicopter; you can hold a vow-exchanging ceremony in the location of your choice. Just remember that this is not legally recognised though and must take place in addition to a civil ceremony.

There are now literally hundreds of alternative venues here in Yorkshire that have been deemed 'seemly and dignified' enough for weddings.

Here is a small selection:

The Royal Hotel in St Nicholas Street, Scarborough, 01723 364333

Bolton Castle in Leyburn, 01969 623981

Georgian Theatre Royal in Victoria Road, Richmond, 01748 823710

Hazlewood Castle in Paradise Lane, Tadcaster, 01937 535310

Masonic Hall in Station Avenue, Harrogate, 01423 504473

Merchant Taylors Hall in Aldwark, York, 01904 624889

Newburgh Priory in Newburgh, Coxwold, 01347 868435

Ripley Castle in Ripley, Harrogate, 01423 770152

Stephen Joseph Theatre in Westborough, Scarborough, 01723 370540

National Railway Museum in Leeman Road, York, 01904 621261

For a full list of approved wedding venues throughout the country call the Office for National Statistics on 0151 471 4200.