London, April 12 (IANS) Vicars in Britain will now get guides to tell them how to spot fake weddings, part of a crackdown on immigrants who undergo bogus ceremonies to stay in Britain.

The guides ask the clergy to stay aware of couples who speak different languages. Other tips include brides or grooms who refer to notes if asked about their fiance, or if they get a wad of cash or go home separately.

Vicars are being told by the Church of England and the Home Office not to agree to all wedding applications.

Brides and grooms from outside the European Union have been asked to get hold of a common wedding licence and make affidavits, according to the Daily Express.

"The guidance is another step forward. Fraudsters should remember a marriage does not give automatic right to remain in Britain," Immigration Minister Damian Green said.

Rt Rev John Packer, bishop of Ripon and Leeds, said the tips would help weed out people abusing the system.