Same-sex marriage is now legally recognised in Northern Ireland.

It becomes the final place in Ireland - or the UK - to recognise the practice.

From Monday same-sex couples will be able to register to marry, meaning the first ceremonies will take place in February.

For couples who are already married, their marriage will be legally recognised in Northern Ireland.

However, the BBC reports that those who are in a civil partnership will not be able to convert it to a marriage.

The British Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Julian Smith, signed the regulations into law back in December.

He said couples will be able to marry by Valentine's Day 2020.

A very good end to the day - signing the new same sex marriage regulations for Northern Ireland. Same sex couples in NI will now be able to marry by Valentine's Day 2020. pic.twitter.com/gAeUy6f9Jw

— Julian Smith MP (@JulianSmithUK) December 19, 2019

The LGBT equality charity Stonewall said it was an "historic day for same-sex couples in Northern Ireland who finally have the chance to say 'I do'."

The legislation was brought in by Westminster in the continued absence of a working devolved government at Stormont.

Abortion also become legal in Northern Ireland as a result of the changes.

Legislation allowing for terminations is expected to be complete by April.

In the meantime, women are being offered free transport to access services in England.

A new power-sharing administration was agreed to last week in Northern Ireland, after Sinn Féin said it would accept a draft deal put together by the Irish and British Governments.

The executive collapsed three years ago in a row over a botched renewable energy scheme.