Wedding vow to get bookings for venue

Couples are shunning the chance to get hitched at Darlaston Town Hall – with no bookings for the venue made in the last six months.

The opportunity to get married at the Victorian hall was launched in April, but so far no-one has taken it up.

The town hall officially reopened in June 2008 after a £325,000 makeover and Walsall Council chiefs said they were keen to see the building used as a wedding venue.

But brides and grooms have so far declined to say 'I do' at the hall in Victoria Road.

Despite this council bosses are insisting they are hopeful of attracting people.

Walsall regeneration chief councillor Adrian Andrew said the recession could be to blame.

He added: "Currently no civil ceremonies have been held at Darlaston Town Hall but it always has been and remains a very popular venue for wedding receptions.

"In August we held a wedding fair which generated considerable interest with lots of people taking away information which we are optimistic will lead to bookings.

"The venue is promoted on the council's website, What's On Walsall and also on a specialist wedding website which has generated a steady stream of inquiries.

"The wedding market is fairly small and specialised and with the current recession a lot of couples are probably delaying getting married.

"Darlaston Town Hall is a popular venue offering everything from wedding receptions and parties to organised events such as organ concerts.

"Overall bookings are up compared to last year and we are pleased with how the venue is performing."

Darlaston Town Hall was built in 1887 and boasts leaded mullion and transom windows.

The foundation stone was laid on June 21, 1887 by James Slater of Bescot Hall, chairman of the Local Board.

The Slater family gave the town hall's organ as a gift to the people of Darlaston in 1903.

As part of the refurbishment last year £7,500 was spent on the feature.