FIFTY couples in Inverclyde have had to rearrange their weddings due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Council data shows a total of 38 civil ceremonies have been cancelled since the health crisis struck, while 12 religious/belief services have been postponed.

All weddings which could not take place due to Covid-19 restrictions have been rescheduled, with the majority now set to be held next year.

The marriage suite at Port Glasgow Town Hall, pictured, received a major £26,000 makeover last year but is one of many venues lying dormant for now, after lockdown was enforced on March 23.

A council spokesman said: “Those weddings which were booked and had to be postponed due to lockdown have all been successfully rearranged for a new date, most of which being in 2021.

“It’s been a difficult time for couples but the registration team have been on hand to help organise an alternative future date.

“Once the government guidance allows, staff are looking forward to restarting ceremonies and celebrating with couples, including at the recently refurbished marriage suite in Port Glasgow Town Hall.

“Inverclyde Council’s registration service, based within the Greenock Municipal Buildings, has remained open throughout lockdown and increased from a five to a seven-day operation to provide support to residents via email or over the phone in light of the government’s stay-at-home and physical distancing guidelines.

“The office remains closed for face-to-face appointments.”

Over the past few months weddings have only been able to take place in exceptional circumstances in Scotland, such as if one partner was seriously ill.

The Scottish Government has said that from this week – as part of phase two of its routemap out of lockdown – marriages and civil partnerships will be able to go ahead with minimal guests.