Stephen Fry is to marry his 27-year-old partner, stand up comedian Elliot Spencer.

The 57-year-old star and his lover have a year to tie the knot after they gave formal notice of their intention at a registry office.

A friend of the star - who's an ambassador for those living with mental health issues - said: "Since Stephen met Elliott it is like he has a new lust for life. We've got the old Stephen back. He has spoken about his problems in the past because he wants others suffering with depression and loneliness to know it can affect everyone. But he has found new hope in Elliott and they thrive off one another."

Stephen was previously with Daniel Cohen - his partner of 14 years - until 2010, after which he dated 30-year-old Steven Webb.

Last November, Fry embarked on a relationship with Elliott, and on December 23rd they made a formal application to marry at a register office in Dereham, Norfolk - Stephen's home county. A date for the wedding itself is not known, nor should it be given they had been hoping for something private.

Meanwhile, Elliott's dad Robert, 57, has refused to comment on the situation, telling The Sun: "Thank you for the opportunity but we've not got anything to say."

Of the happy news making itself known, Fry has been busy tweeting the following this morning...