Medway's MPs are divided on the issue of gay marriage, with hours to go before a vote in Parliament.

The bill allowing same-sex couples to marry will be voted on in the House of Commons today but a revolt by back-bench Conservatives is likely.

They are allowed a free vote on the issue, but key government figures including the home secretary, Teresa May, have written to the party faithful urging them to support the bill.

Rochester and Strood MP Mark Reckless (left) has still not revealed how he will vote.

He said today: "You will see the vote and I'm not keen to do media or anticipate it before it takes place. My vote will be a matter of public record once it is cast."

Chatham MP Tracey Crouch has said she is in favour.

She said previously: “I am in favour of same-sex marriage but have always said services should not be forced on the church. As it stands this is the case, so I will be voting for the Bill.”

Rehman Chishti is against same-sex marriage.

The Gillingham and Rianham MP (pictured right) said previously: "I do not support any redefinition of marriage, which is based on my own principles and is in accordance with all faiths.

"People in gay and lesbian relationships can enter into a civil partnership with the same rights, and I fully support that.”

The bill, if passed today, will allow religious ceremonies for gay couples but will not force any religious groups to lead services against their will.

Labour councillors in Medway wrote an open letter to the Towns' MPs yesterday, urging them to reject what they claimed was a "widespread misunderstanding and lack of awareness amongst elected Conservative representatives."