Kenilworth Methodist Church has announced that it will now host same-sex marriages.

The Methodist Church conference voted overwhelmingly in favour of allowing same-sex marriages in its churches last June, making it the largest denomination in the UK to do so.

However, it was also agreed that there would be a freedom of conscious clause allowing individual churches to opt out.

The church council at Kenilworth Methodist Church voted in favour of allowing same-sex marriages last November and has this month received official permission to do so.

Kenilworth is one of four churches in the South Warwickshire Circuit to have opted in so far, alongside Stratford, Henley-in-Arden and Dale Street in Leamington Spa.

Minister of Kenilworth Methodist Church and circuit superintendent, Reverend Dr Iain Ballard said he was looking forward to welcoming same-sex couples to get married there.

"We are pleased to be able to invite same-sex couples to explore marriage in a Christian environment," he said.

"Our main purpose with this announcement is to underline Jesus's words that he came to bring 'life in all its fullness'.

"The celebration of a faithful committed relationship between two people in the marriage ceremony is just one aspect of this.

"We look forward to welcoming anyone who is preparing for their wedding and supporting you as you journey towards this significant milestone in your relationship."

The Methodist Church, which has around 164,000 members nationally, voted in favour of same-sex marriages last June by 254 votes to 64.

Same-sex marriage remains forbidden by the Church of England and the Roman Catholic Church.

"The journey to this point has been long and sometimes challenging, but we believe God's love is for all people – regardless of their sexuality or gender identity – and this is supported by our understanding of the Bible that guides our faith," Dr Ballard added.

"We recognise those within our church who feel uncomfortable about this decision and will continue to 'live with contradictory convictions,' as the Methodist Church describes it, with grace and respect."