WIGHTLINK played cupid when it helped regular traveller Kevin Gumma to propose to his partner.

Kevin thought it would be romantic to pop the question to his partner Chrissy Tierney mid-Solent so he tipped off steward Sue Prince in advance.

She was only too pleased to make the arrangements for Capt Alex Fogarty to invite the couple to the bridge.

Encouraged by the crew of the flagship Victoria of Wight, Kevin got down on one knee to ask Chrissy to marry him.

Kevin, who has just set up his own engineering consultancy business on the Island, said: "We’re both originally from the mainland and now live in Ryde so it was appropriate to get engaged on a ferry on our way to Portsmouth for a holiday in Dorset.

“We have been together for 14 years and our son Stanley is nine years old so perhaps it was high time we got married?”

Chrissy said: “While waiting for the ferry, Kev suggested trying to arrange a visit to the bridge.

"It was a few days before my 50th birthday, so he asked if I wanted an early present, and then he proposed.

"I asked Stan what he thought first and we both said yes.

"I love the ring and was very impressed that Kev chose it himself. It’s just what I would have chosen myself. We’re a very happy family.”

Capt Fogarty said: “Contrary to the commonly held belief, ship captains are not authorised to marry people.

"My crew and I, however, were delighted to play our part in Kevin and Chrissy's day, and wish them both a happy future together.”

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