By Anna White

The second Friday of August is usually a popular day for couples to say 'I do' but this year superstition seems to have got the better of some.

Today - Friday the 13th - just 18 couples will wed across the Kent, 15 less than the amount of ceremonies held on Friday, August 14 of last year and 26 fewer than the 44 weddings held on Friday, August 14, 2008.

Two of the 18 services are taking place at the Archbishop's Palace in Maidstone.

The plummet in marriages seems to be linked with what is believed to be an unlucky date as the past summer months have been a popular choice for weddings. One couple ignoring the superstition is Lynn Gasson and Simon Butler of Murston Road, Sittingbourne. The duo will be saying their vows at the Archbishop's Palace.

The bride-to-be said: "We first got together five years ago on August 13 so we wanted to get married on that day, but I had no idea it was a Friday until I rang the register office back in January.

"They said I could have any time I wanted as there was no one else booked in.

"I am not superstitious at all but my dad really is and lots of people have gasped when I have said that I am getting married on Friday the 13th. I am not worried. I am sure it will be a great day."

Alyn Thomas, marketing and licensing manager at the Kent Registration Service, said: "We have had a very busy summer of ceremonies across the county but the number taking place on Friday does suggest an unusual drop in the normal amount we might expect in August.

"This does indicate that maybe some of our more superstitious couples are avoiding the date."