184 couples marry on Valentine’s Day

PHUKET: The island set a record for marriages on Valentine’s Day this year. The number of couples tying the knot on the year’s most romantic day increased from 143 in 1999 to 184 this year. Of these, 115 got hitched in Muang District, 31 in Kathu and 38 in Thalang District. The Assistant District Officer of Thalang, Samapol Koontong, said this year’s number was probably up because Valentine’s Day last year fell on Saturday and people did not know whether the district offices were open or not. Those taking the plunge ranged from people in their 20s to tender couples in their 60s. Most were from Phuket. To keep the day happy, district offices today gave newlyweds a small gift and a book of marriage tips. They also refused to allow anyone to file for divorce.