ONE woman has great expectations of Brighton’s open-minded nature by legislating to create a Same Person Marriage Act after marrying herself as part of the Fringe.

Sophie Tanner plans to encourage a “cultural mind shift” when she carries out her self-wedding for all to see as part of Fringe City tomorrow.

The 36-year-old Brighton resident said: “The main message of the event is to promote self-respect over insecurity.”

Miss Tanner grew up in Dorset and then moved to London to study English and theatre at university.

After travelling for a while she settled in Brighton.

Miss Tanner said: “I can’t think of a better place to marry myself,” she said.

“Brighton and Hove is a unique, open-minded city and the festivities reflect its colourful cultural heritage.

“My family and friends are delighted with the news and my father can’t wait to give me away to myself.

“Both my parents have always been incredibly supportive for me and always encouraged me to be whoever I want to be.

"Self-marriage addresses the notion that being single and thoroughly enjoying it is a viable lifestyle choice, whether this is for a short period of time, during several stages in your life or for most of your adult years,” she added.

“I’m a believer that it is possible to live a fulfilled life on your own terms, without a partner to ‘complete you’.”

Miss Tanner marries herself tomorrow at 1.30pm on the steps of Brighton Unitarian Church in New Road.

The performance is due to last for about 15 minutes and her 20-odd bridesmaids, along with ring-bearing dog Ella, and wedding party then forms a street dance procession down to the reception on Brighton beach from 2pm.

She added: “I will not wish away my life waiting for ‘the one’ when I am, in fact, the one.”