VALENTINE'S Day was celebrated with the launch of a new £26,000 Inverclyde marriage suite.

Love was in the air at Port Glasgow Town Hall, where the council's dedicated nuptials lounge was unveiled yesterday.

The suite was officially opened by environment convener Councillor Michael McCormick and assistant registrars Jonny O'Connor and Diane McKenzie following a £26,000 makeover.

Located on the first floor of the town hall, the room features chandelier-style lights, a new ceiling, polished wood floors and new curtains.

The fire has been replaced with a white marble fireplace alongside modern furnishings and floral arrangements to complement many of the original features.

One thing that remains the same is the famous wood panelling, which was gifted to the council by Cunard Line when the QE2 was fitted-out in Inverclyde in 1968.

Councillor McCormick said: "Your wedding should be one of the most memorable days of your life, for all the right reasons. "We wanted to make sure the marriage suite provides local couples with exactly the right kind of backdrop and ambience for their special day.

"The new-look suite is bright and welcoming."

The previous council marriage suite was located in the former Greenock Registry Office in West Stewart Street, which closed in October 2017.

Initial plans to create a replacement in the old district courtroom within the Municipal Buildings were ditched in favour of a move to the Port Town Hall, which is more easily accessible and secure.

Bookings for the new marriage suite are now being taken and private viewings can also be arranged.

Mr McCormick said: "Some registry office weddings can seem impersonal but this room has a warm, intimate feeling while still being able to take 50 guests. "It is on the same floor as the town hall function rooms, which means the wedding and reception can take place in the same building. "The function hall can accommodate 250 guests.

"It's an ideal venue."

Marriage ceremonies are available Monday to Sunday, including public holidays, and are tailor-made to a couple's personal requirements.

They are conducted by an authorised registrar or assistant registrar.

For more information and to discuss a ceremony, phone 714250 or email registrars@inverclyde.gov.uk