Elton to wed at Christmas

Showbiz

09:30 23 February 2005

Elton John is reportedly set to wed lover David Furnish in a lavish ceremony at Christmas- after laws in Britain are changed to allow same-sex couples to marry.

The pop superstar is allegedly thrilled after it was announced that gay couples will be able to notify Registry Offices of their intention to form a civil partnership from December 5 2005, and tie the knot by Christmas after a 15-day waiting period has passed.

A friend of the couple revealed: "Like every gay couple who want to marry they have kept a close eye on this proposal as it becomes law. Now a date has been fixed, the plans can really go ahead and they can get everything ready for a poignant ceremony."

Elton, who has been with the Canadian film producer for 11 years, has made no secret of his desire to marry David - as he wants to ensure his partner inherits his millions after his death.

He recently told American chat show host Larry King: "David and I have been together for 11 years. We should have the same rights to commit to each other in our relationship as heterosexual and married people.

"I'm waiting for it to happen in Britain. There's a civil union coming which will allow us go to a register office and protect each other.

"For example, if I die and leave my money to David, my family can contest that."

(c) BANG Media International