Montgomeryshire MP Lembit Opik proposed to his Cheeky Girl girlfriend Gabriela Irimia while on a romantic break in Italy, and former fiancee, weather forecaster Sian Lloyd, has been among the first to congratulate him.

"I wish them both all the best," said Sian, who since breaking up with Lembit in 2006 has married motoring tycoon Jonathan Ashman.
"Hopefully it will be third time lucky for Lembit – they always say it takes a Welshman three attempts."

Lembit may only be an honorary Welshman, but there is no doubting he is a true romantic.

He is reported to have dropped to one knee in the time-honoured traditional style and produced a Tiffany white platinum diamond engagement ring beside the famous Trevi Fountain.

43-year-old Lembit Opik and Gabriela Irimia, 25, met in 2006 when the pair both appeared as contestants on television programme All Star Talent Show.

Their relationship began some months later.

Talking about their engagement, Lembit Opik said: "I hope that Montgomeryshire will also celebrate my good news.

"I am very lucky to have met Gabriela and even luckier that she said yes.

"I guess people will be meeting more of us together in and around the county, and all messages of congratulations will be gratefully received.

"It is nice, in these troubled times, to bring some good news to the county."

The rumour mill is now speculating that the wedding could take place at Powis Castle in a couple of years time.

"I am dreaming of a lavish white wedding in a castle," said Miss Irimia.