COUPLES are being invited to take part in a competition which could see them become the first marriage ceremonies in a newly refurbished historic house.

Southover Grange, in Lewes, is scheduled to open its doors in April following a £1.5 million refurbishment by East Sussex County Council.

Councillor Chris Dowling, county council lead member for community services, said: “The restoration has breathed new life into a stunning period building while maintaining its unique character.

“This competition will allow people to be part of history and for their ceremony to be the first of its kind at the newly-refurbished venue.”

The winning entrants will have the right to the first wedding, civil partnership, renewal of marriage vows and baby-naming ceremony on the first day on Saturday, April 29.

Cllr Dowling added: “We’re delighted to be in a position where we’re now taking bookings for ceremonies and celebrations at Southover Grange, which will provide a fantastic backdrop.”

Regular ceremonies will resume on April 30 while the deadline for the competition is March 1.

The first 20 successful applicants to become British citizens will also take part in a citizenship ceremony on the day.

To enter prospective couples have to write a statement explaining why they should be the winners on one side of a4 paper.

The winning couples will also have the ceremonies free of charge with up to 55 guests being allowed. Other services, such as a wedding reception and a drinks toast for the guests can be booked alongside the ceremony.

Customers can also book other services alongside their ceremony, including a VIP suite for use before their ceremony, a drinks toast for all their guests after their ceremony or even an exclusive wedding reception within the building.

During the two-year refurbishment a new lift and staircase were put in to improve access to the first floor. The kitchen and toilets have also been refurbished while a new community space has been created in the Newton Room. Three ground floor rooms and the central hall were made into wedding function facilities while a former flat has been brought into use as a VIP suite.

During the closure of the building registration services were offered at Westfield House, in the grounds of the County Hall, while couples could obtain register office ceremonies at Lewes Town Hall. To enter the competition email carole.bailey@eastsussex.gov.uk