Gay couples have been ruled out of applying for inclusion in an ancient custom.

Next year's Dunmow Flitch Trials will be on July 12, but organisers have stipulated that it is only married couples, and not those joined by a civil partnership, that can enter the four-yearly trials.

The trials date back to the 12th century and are open to couples who can prove they have not repented from being married to each other for a year and day.

Up until now the trials have been run without a constitution, but the Rev David Ainge said one had been prepared and is expected to be agreed within a month.

The Dunmow vicar said the constitution includes specific reference to couples being married, although it is no longer compulsory to have been married in church.

The rules now state any couple married in accordance with English law or whose marriage is recognised in the UK can apply.

Mr Ainge said: "It does not apply to gay couples.

"A couple in a civil partnership are not given a marriage certificate, and it's a marriage certificate that is required.

"If any couple can't provide that then they cannot be considered," he said.

Couples who want to claim a flitch can apply between July this year and March 31, 2008.

A jury of six maidens and six bachelors from Dunmow, aged between 18 and 25, is also needed to decide on the bids for the flitch.

Tickets go on sale from January 1.

  • Further details about next year's trials are on the website below
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