A Victorian town hall will throw open its doors to its biggest ever wedding fayre this weekend.

Wedding suppliers will stage a total of 26 displays ““ 10 more than last year ““ at the event at the Register Office in Hanley Town Hall on Saturday (27 February).

And wedding planners will also be able to sample facilities at the Stoke-on-Trent City Council venue, which is a listed building that boasts a traditionally decorated and furnished ceremony room with seats for 70 guests. The room is used for a number of events such as weddings, civil partnerships, citizenships, naming and renewal of vows ceremonies.

Councillor John Daniels, cabinet member for housing, environment and neighbourhood services, said:

“Last year’s event was such a success and so well attended that we have had to open an additional area for exhibitors this year. We will have displays from exhibitors including chauffeurs, cake suppliers, card shops, flower designers, photographers and a range of wedding venues.

“It is the chance to find out about everything you need to plan your special day. It is also the opportunity to view the Register Officer and learn more about the other services that we officer.”

The wedding fayre is being held by the city council’s registration service and will run between 10am and 2pm. Lord Mayor Jean Bowers will mark the launch of the event by releasing doves.

Councillor Daniels added:

“We do everything we can to make sure your ceremony is special. You have the option of making it more personal by adding extra words in the form of vows, poems or readings and choosing your own music.”

The registration service provides a range of other services including registration of births and deaths and providing copies of these certificates.