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Clare Teal's field of dreams BRITAIN'S most successful female jazz singer Clare Teal made history on 21st December 2005. But unlike Sir Elton John, whose civil partnership was splashed across the world's media, hers was an altogether more private affair. And that's how she wanted it.
For Clare, who was born and brought up in Kildwick, Yorkshire, has never wanted to be a flag-waving lesbian nor has she considered being gay as a barrier to getting on in life.
"I’m glad to say I’ve never had any problems regarding society and my sexuality," she says. "And I have never apologised for who I am.
"But then I don’t ram the fact that I’m gay down people’s throats either."
She and her partner Muddy Field, who met through friends at a charity event about 13 years ago, tied the knot on 21st December 2005 - the very day that same-sex marriage became legal in the UK.
"It was a great day, there was not a meringue in sight and the party was marvellous,” said Clare.
But the occasion was not without great significance to the woman much adored by ex-chat show host Michael Parkinson.
"It was important to us that we were finally able to sign a legally-binding document together that would enable us to be each other’s next of kin," said Clare.
"It also ensured that if anything happened to us it would be much easier for our son to receive what was rightfully his."
Clare, though, is not blind to the plight of others who might be struggling to come out due to pressure from society.
"I know a few of our friends have struggled to come out in their respective workplaces," she says.
Since the law changed, which paved the way for gay marriages, Clare's been to a fair few civil partnerships.
"They’ve been very lovely do’s or should that be I do’s," she said.
Some have asked her to sing.
"One service in particular was very moving because friends and family contributed to the proceedings with speeches, readings and songs,” she said.
"There were lots of tears, lots of laughter and lots of champagne."
She is often most moved, though, by what the couple has to say about each other.
"They get me every time," she says.
Clare hopes that civil partnerships will help to change the public's perception of gay relationships.
"It annoys me when some people assume gay relationships last no longer than five minutes," she said.
"Most of our friends are in long-term relationships of up to 25 years."
Today Clare and Muddy work, write songs, go on tour together and share a penthouse flat in Bath's Lansdown Crescent.
Those who have have seen Clare in concert, will no doubt have spotted Muddy waiting in the wings.
If you look for a foot, it will usually be Muddy's.
And the chances are it will be tapping in time to the music... |   Follow Our Recent Tweets
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