Three MPs are hosting a reception at the House of Commons with the Pride charity to celebrate the arrival of civil partnerships next month.

Brighton and Hove's three MPs Des Turner, David Lepper and Celia Barlow will join equality minister Meg Munn at the function on December 5, the day the law changes.

The minister will also welcome the Reverend Debbie Gaston, of the Brightwaves Metropolitan Community Church in Brighton, and her partner Elaine Gaston.

The couple will enter the history books as one of the first same-sex couples to get married when they tie the knot on December 21 at 8am.

Miss Gaston's church has been the recipient of grant funding from the Pride charity to help its work so it is fitting for Pride to be celebrating with her.

The Commons reception is being led by Celia Barlow, the Labour MP for Hove.

David Harvey, chairman of Pride, said: "We're thrilled to be recognised at government level. It's been a long, hard journey for some of the volunteer trustees during the last three years in shaping Pride into a charity and holding the crown of the best festival in the land."

Guests will include representatives from Pride sponsors, businesses and volunteers.