The first wedding in Cockermouth Town Hall could be held as soon as October.

Town councillors unanimously supported the idea at a meeting last week. The plan has been welcomed by town groups too.

The town council was approached by the county council, which has ceremony rooms in Fairfield, off Station Road, and asked if weddings could be held in the Grade 2 listed Georgian riverside venue instead.

A county council spokesman said: "The move has been triggered by a desire to offer an improved setting for ceremonies in the area which it is hoped will increase demand for wedding services in Cockermouth from both the local community and those visiting to spend their special day in the area.

"The Town Hall is an idyllic riverside location for ceremonies and should bring additional revenue in to the town and contribute to the wider local economy."

Steve Bishop, chairman of Cockermouth Chamber of Trade, said: "The town hall was the image on our bags for life as it's an iconic town image. It's a great building to use for weddings.

"Anything that brings more people to the town and boosts local businesses is always a good thing."

Deputy mayor Alan Tyson said: "The councillors all support this plan. It's an excellent venue and the chambers are under used as we only meet once or twice a month."

Elizabeth Gibson owns Floral Boutique on Market Place and does the flowers for lots of weddings.

"I think it's great. The building is lovely and a lot more private than the other one, it's great to see the town hall being put to good use.

"I think it might also keep weddings in town, which is good news."

Superintendent registrar Louise McKenna said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for the people of Cockermouth and the many visitors we welcome to Cumbria every year to enjoy their special day in a stunning location against the backdrop of our beautiful Lake District.

"We’re delighted to be working alongside our partners at Cockermouth Town Hall and with the people of Cockermouth to provide a first class service in a wonderful setting.”

An application to licence the new premises for wedding ceremonies is on the county council website, and will remain for three weeks to allow for any public objections to be raised. Ceremonies are expected to start taking place in the Town Hall from October.

Cumbria Registration Service will contact existing bookings to arrange a visit to the Town Hall.