ONE of East Cambridgeshire s first civil partnership ceremonies took place at Ely Register Office last month. Michael Mitchell and Nicholas Bush took advantage of legislation active from December, which allows gay couples to become civil partners and enjo

ONE of East Cambridgeshire's first civil partnership ceremonies took place at Ely Register Office last month.

Michael Mitchell and Nicholas Bush took advantage of legislation active from December, which allows gay couples to become civil partners and enjoy the same legal rights as a married couple.

Mr Mitchell, 41, and Mr Bush, also 41, of Witchford, invited their families to a low-key ceremony at the register office before a celebration at The Old Fire Engine House.

"It really was quite emotional," Mr Mitchell said.

"After 19 years of being together we can now have the same rights as everybody else.