COUPLES could soon be married at Rayleigh's historic windmill - as long as they don't invite too many guests.

The mill has been restored using money from Thames Gateway.

Owner Rochford District Council looked at the idea of weddings after the work was completed but the idea was abandoned because it was not deemed possible to fit 25 people in its ground floor.

In a report to next Thursday's executive board, head of community services Jeremy Bourne says discussions have taken place with Essex County Council about re-examining the possibility of holding weddings at the landmark.

He said the county council's officers had noted a significant rise in the number of smaller ceremonies, which meant there was demand for small but unusual venues.

Mr Bourne said he believed a wedding licence application for the mill could well be successful.

He said if a licence was granted, it would be reasonable for the council to charge £350 to £400 for the hire of the building.

There was also potential for a package deal with other local facilities such as the Mill Arts and Events Centre.

Mr Bourne said chairs and tables would have to be bought and there would have to be a different environment at the mill to make it more appropriate for weddings and civil ceremonies.

Members will be asked to decide whether to go ahead with getting the licence and whether to use up to £8,000 from available cash adapting the mill, which could be regained from booking costs.

Executive board member Peter Webster, whose wife Mavis has been the champion of the windmill, said: "I think it is a fantastic idea.

"There are not many windmills in the country where you could hold a wedding and only a few yards away you also have a good quality venue to arrange the reception.

"This was one of our ideas when the windmill was first restored and if it comes to fruition I will be delighted."