Valentine’s Day crush expected

PHUKET: The island’s district offices are getting set for an invasion by hundreds of couples who wish to tie the knot on Valentine’s Day next week. A free stay in a five-star hotel and other prizes are on offer in a lucky draw on the big day at Phuket Town District Office, when Registration Officer Karnjana Hongboonyanurak expects that about 200 couples will come to register, about the same as last year. In Thalang, Registration Officer Sakorn Lipornkeit said, “We will decorate our office in red, including a big heart and an arch inside the office. The officers will also dress colorfully. Last year there were 49 couples. We have special gifts organized, too.” Sutha Sukhahotu, Palad of Kathu District, said, “The first couple will be married by the District Chief. Last year there were 16 couples and we hope more will come this year. There will be gifts for couples, including meals at restaurants.” Statistics for 2002 show a total of 1,712 weddings and 536 divorces at the three offices throughout the year. In 2001, there were 1,697 weddings and 475 divorces.