One thing about us here at Closer HQ is that we’re a sucker for an unexpected celeb romance and the blossoming new relationship between former TOWIE star Ricky Rayment and his new girlfriend certainly fits the brief.
We definitely didn’t expect to be writing this news, but we’re very happy for them.
Just days after they were papped looking cosy af on a day out, Ricky has confirmed that he’s dating Coronation Street actress Katie McGlynn.
The loved-up showbiz pair made things Instagram official on the most romantic day of the year, Valentine’s Day, as they shared a series of couple snaps alongside the caption, “Every day is like Valentine’s Day with you ♥️.”
Aww.
Ricky and Katie’s followers and friends took to the comments section to share their delight at their romance, with one writing, “This makes me proper happy xx.”
Another commented, “My favourite couple 🥹♥️,” while a third said, “Hottest couple in town 🔥 love ya 💕💕.”
Even Love Island’s Casey O’Gorman celebrated the couple as he wrote, “Cute!”
Although they’ve only just gone public, it’s been reported that Ricky and Katie, who played Sinead Tinker on Corrie, have actually been dating for four months.
“Katie and Ricky are really loved up. They’ve been careful to keep things low key while they got to know each other,” a source told The Sun. “But they’ve got to the point where they don’t care who sees them anymore.”
The couple have even sparked rumours they’re already engaged after Katie was papped with a ring on her wedding finger while running errands with Ricky in Essex this week.
Prior to dating Katie, Ricky had public relationships with Jess Wright and Geordie Shore’s Marnie Simpson.
Ricky’s turbulent relationship with Jess played out on TOWIE as their families came to blows over their romance before it all ended in tears when it came to light that Jess had seen messages Ricky had sent to another woman.
He later moved on with Marnie, crossing over to appear on Geordie Shore when he surprised her with a proposal. However, they split a year later.
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Nathan Katnoria is Closer's Senior Digital Writer and resident TOWIE expert. He's seen all 32 (thirty two!!) series of the ITVBe show and regularly reminisces about forgotten TOWIE romances from years gone by. Although he's never been to Brentwood, Nathan has interviewed loads of TOWIE faves past and present including Sam Faiers, Chloe Brockett, Diags and Georgia Kousoulou.