It's the most nerve-racking moment in any ceremony - the point at which the officiating person (such as the priest, vicar or registrar) asks if anyone has any good reason why the couple should not be married. It's somewhat akin to a livestock auction, in that everyone instinctively freezes, knowing that if you cough you will end up buying the farm, metaphorically speaking. However, if you do know of a lawful reason, or just wish to avail yourself of the final chance to sexually harass the bride(groom) some more, the correct procedure, for UK attendees at least, is as follows:

• When the presiding official asks that question, say in a clear voice 'I do'; make yourself known to the official by either raising your hand or making clear eye contact.

• Ask if you can raise your objections in private. This will clearly be less embarrassing for all concerned, and may stop you being lynched by irate relatives.

• If you have a legal reason for objecting to the marriage, providing evidence is the only sure-fire way to stop the ceremony. The official is quite entitled to proceed nevertheless with the consent of both parties.

• If the service does proceed,