The MP who first proposed the same-sex marriage bill spoke of her delight after the date of the first gay wedding was announced.

It was announced yesterday that same-sex marriages in England and Wales will be able to take place from March 29, 2014.

Lynne Featherstone, the MP for Hornsey and Wood Green, said she was proud of making the country a more equal place.

The former equalities minister said: “When I started the process and introduced the Marriage Bill as Equalities Minister in the Home Office, the first ceremonies sometimes seemed a long way away.

“I’m so happy that it’s now only a matter of months before same-sex couples get can married.

“This is, and has always been, about love, happiness, and giving same-sex couples equal rights.”

Ms Featherstone added that she looked forward to receiving some wedding invitations.

Initially it was thought the first marriages would not take place until next summer.

Couples wishing to be among the first to marry will need to give formal notice of their intention by March 13.

It comes after the Government's legislation on the issue received Royal Assent in July.