Hundreds across Cumbria can rejoice – and get those finishing touches ticked off – as small wedding receptions will be allowed to take place from the start of next month under the latest government guidance.

Ceremonies of up to 30 people are currently permitted in England, with guests now allowed to attend the reception after the main event from August 1 – something currently limited to just six people if outside, or two households if inside.

Archdeacon of West Cumberland, Richard Pratt, is thrilled for those going ahead with their wedding celebrations, and said: "The reception is a really important part of the wedding, and so for lots of couples I imagine this is such good news, and I'm really happy for them.

"Eating together and celebrating is such a big part of the faith, and a central part of simply being human as well, so I'm very glad for couples they can have that celebration now."

He added: "My only worry is that people can spend so much on their reception – just enjoy the day, and even something as simple as a bring-and-share with the help of family and friends would make the day so special."

Allerdale MP Mark Jenkinson is also pleased with the news, and said: “It’s been really difficult for people who were going to get married and delayed.

“There’s a real need to get back to some form of normality.”

Mr Jenkinson added that the new guidance is a much-needed boost for all, saying: “There’s a real mental health aspect. It’s really important that we learn to adapt, to live with it.”

For more information on the latest guidance, visit www.gov.uk.