THE Ribble Valley has been proclaimed the capital of love in Lancashire after a weddings partnership was launched.

The borough council is working with leading wedding venues across the area to encourage more ceremony’s and receptions to be held in the Ribble Valley.

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Around 2,000 weddings are held in the borough every year at venues including Whalley Abbey, Clitheroe Castle, the Gibbon Bridge Hotel in Chipping and Browsholme Hall near Clitheroe.

A new website has been set up showcasing each venue and the Ribble Valley as a destination in a bid for more weddings to be held in the borough and for the wedding parties and guests to stay in the areas as well. The initiative, which is believed to be the first in the country, was unveiled at a special event at Eaves Hall in West Bradford, which was attended by borough mayor, Coun Michael Ranson.

The event took the format of a wedding and included the cutting of a specially made cake and red roses for the guests.

Tom Pridmore, the council’s, tourism officer, said: “The secret of the success is down to the exquisite range of wedding venues on offer, each set in the stunning scenery of the Ribble Valley.

“In a unique partnership, believed to be the first in the country, wedding venues are working together to promote an area for weddings, and the qualities of this corner of England are now truly being discovered.

“The Ribble Valley has been experiencing a surge in interest as a wedding destination by couples from across the UK.

“The council recognises the economic importance and future potential of wedding tourism, the value of which goes way beyond the directo income of wedding venues.

“The impact of wedding guests staying, dining and shopping in the area is also very significant.

“Moreover, the steady stream of guests as first time visitors to the area offers the valuable opportunities for repeat tourism visits.

“Weddings therefore, provide a fantastic shop front opportunity for the area and its businesses.

“By forging the wedding partnership, the council aims to work with partners and suppliers to elevate the area in this niche but highly valuable tourism market.”