Gately ties the knot

Former Boyzone singer Stephen Gately has "married" his long-term partner Andy Cowles in a private civil partnership ceremony in London.

Stephen had already made an official commitment to Andy Cowles in Las Vegas three years ago.

Sunday's ceremony followed recent changes to the law, which introduced same-sex civil partnerships in England.

The ceremony was attended by fellow Boyzone stars Keith Duffy and Shane Lynch, but the band's ex-manager Louis Walsh was unable to join the celebrations because of illness. Sir Elton John, who was also expected to be among the guests but did not attend.