A Christian baker was told they cannot justify refusing to make a pro-gay marriage cake in court today (26 March).

Ashers Baking Company, based in Northern Ireland, declined an order from a gay rights activist that wanted to support same-sex marriage with dessert.

Customer Gareth Lee wanted the cake to also feature the slogan, ‘Support Gay Marriage’ and the logo ‘Queerspace’, a Belfast-based campaigning group for equal marriage, and Bert and Ernie from Sesame Street.

Daniel McArthur, the general manager, said the cake was refused because it is ‘at odds with our beliefs’.

Opening the case, Robin Allen QC, representing Lee, said the baker’s objection on religious grounds was not lawful.

Baking a cake doesn’t mean you support the message, and the cake would not have the Ashers logo signifying their approval.

‘A postman taking a letter to the door or a printer carrying out a printing job – nobody would say that involved promoting or support,’ he said.

‘It’s simply a functional relationship, a working relationship.’

Allen noted the attention the case has so far received, from everyone including celebrities, politicians and religious figures having their say.

‘Law must not be determined by those who shout loudest,’ he said.

‘This is a case about commerce and discrimination.’

Arriving at court before the hearing, Ashers Baking Company owner McArthur said God was on his side.

The hearing is expected to run for two days.