A MAYOR is backing same-sex partnerships - and claims legislation recognising them officially is long overdue.

Ray Mallon, the Mayor of Middlesbrough, says everyone has the right to be who they are.

Middlesbrough Register Office is today hosting an open day ahead of December 5, when homosexual couples can give notice of their intention to form a civil partnership.

These same-sex ceremonies can be conducted from December 21.

The event has been organised for the gay community to find out more information from register office staff, local solicitors and representatives from hotels - which will be approved venues - who will be in attendance at the register office today.

Mr Mallon said: "The act giving civil partnerships legal standing was of tremendous importance - affecting everything from a person's parental rights to their pension. It afforded equality of opportunity to a substantial section of the community. It should have been done years ago.

"I support diversity in the community and believe strongly that everyone should have equal access to services and the right to be free from discrimination and harassment - that is why I am supporting this open day.''

Superintendent Registrar Robert Willis said posters were being displayed across Middlesbrough, promoting the new legislation.

He said: "We aim to offer a fair, friendly and professional service and welcome the new customers who will be making use of the new legislation.''

The open day is being held in the register office, The Boulevard, Middlesbrough town centre from 2pm today.