First same-sex weddings take place in Scotland

Congratulations to Scotland, where the first same-sex weddings are taking place today (December 31).

Same-sex couples have been able to register their intention to marry since December 16, when the country’s equal marriage laws came into effect, with the first ceremonies taking place shortly after midnight today.

Joe Schofield and Malcolm Brown, from Tullibody in Clackmannanshire, were among the first to marry under the new law, in a Humanist ceremony at 12.01am at the Trades Hall in Glasgow.

Photo: Tinged Memories/Equality Network

Mr Schofield, a public health worker, and Mr Brown, a former DJ, have been together for nine years, and said following the ceremony: “Today we are finally recognised as a married couple. We are very proud to be one of the first couples in Scotland to be able to officially call ourselves husband and husband.

“This is an amazing chapter in Scotland’s history which we are all witnessing and can be proud of.

“Scotland is leading the way in fairness and equality for all, and we would like to thank all those who campaigned so tirelessly for this change.”

A further 250 couples in Scotland have already converted their civil partnerships into marriage since the legislation came into effect on December 16.

Members of the Scottish Parliament voted by 105 to 18 in favour of the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Bill back in February, while same-sex marriage have been taking place across England and Wales since March 29 this year.

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