Gay ‘page dog’ hails Brighton’s 680th civil partnership

Illustrated rainbow pride flag on a pink background.

A gay dog, a gay choir and a drag queen bridesmaid helped bring in Brighton’s 680th civil partnership yesterday.

Jamie Hakim, co owner of PinkNews.co.uk’s media partner 3SIXTY magazine took the plunge with Graeme Youngs at Brighton Town Hall.

Jamie, 36, and his partner Graeme, 41, who runs gardening business Gorgeous Gardens, were greeted by City Mayor David Smith after arriving at the Town Hall in a ‘stretch Mini Cooper

The Mayor of Brighton and Hove, senior Councillors and faces from the world of gay business also turned up.

Jamie’s boxer dog, Humphrey, performed the role of page boy.

A bleary eyed David Harvey, Jamie’s business partner on 3SIXTY magazine, told PinkNews.co.uk: “It was a super day, yet another gay relationship recotnised in law.”

Brighton and Hove’s Gay Mens’ Chorus serenaded the couple as they left the Town Hall.

for a reception at Brighton’s Metropole Hotel attended by over 100 of the couple’s family and friends.

Jamie said: “I have obviously followed the progress of the civil partnership legislation through my magazine, and to be taking part personally is such an honour.

“It’s great that Brighton Hove is leading the way in civil partnerships and we are so proud to call this city our home.”

Brighton Hove made history on 21st December last year by hosting three civil partnership registrations simultaneously, which were among the first in the country.

Council Leader Simon Burgess said: “We are immensely proud and privileged to have carried out 680 ceremonies in our first year and that we continue to lead the way with the highest number of services in the country.

“This is a huge achievement and we are thrilled that so many couples are choosing Brighton Hove as the place they want to tie the knot.

“We feel honoured to be able to play a part in a couple’s special day, many who have waited a lifetime for legal recognition of their relationship.”