Claire Sweeney and Ricky Hatton confirm romance as they make red carpet debut

Claire Sweeney and Ricky Hatton have made their red carpet debut as a duo at a star-filled event, seemingly affirming their relationship after weeks of gossip.

Rumours are swirling that the two celebrities began seeing each other following their stint on Dancing on Ice last year. The Corrie star, 53, and pro boxer Ricky, 45, were inseparable at the newly inaugurated Co-op Live in Manchester on Saturday.

The happy couple wasn't shy for the cameras, grinning widely throughout the star-studded do. Claire turned heads in a one-shoulder white jumpsuit complemented by gold accessories and a bold, red lip. Ricky was dapper in a dark velvet blazer and denim trousers.

Both celebrities didn't hold back and promptly shared snapshots from their fancy night out on Instagram. Actress Claire uploaded affectionate selfies of her and Ricky at the event and added the caption: "Great night watching @officialrickastley @coopuk new arena with @rickymanhatton," paired with a red heart icon.

Ricky echoed these sentiments, stating he'd enjoyed a "great night" alongside Claire, with snippets of their fun evening out. Enthusiastic fans did not hesitate to shower the pair with compliments, expressing they "look good together" and conveying their happiness for the blooming stars, reports OK!.

The paths of Ricky and Claire crossed while both participated in Dancing on Ice earlier this year. Although the live shows only started in January, rehearsals had been underway in 2023, which is likely when Ricky and Claire developed their connection.

Ricky is rumoured to have initiated the romance with Claire, leading to a series of dates. The boxing professional is reportedly 'besotted' with his new partner, and the affection appears to be mutual, an insider claims.

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"Claire's been very unlucky in the past with her love life but she's really happy with Ricky. He's got a kind heart and really makes her laugh. That's the way to Claire's heart really, making her laugh and she's been nothing but smiles since meeting Ricky," an insider revealed to OK!

"It's a very unlikely pairing but they've both realised that they actually have so much in common and both really love each other's company and they're laughing all the time."

The source continued: "Claire also loves boxing and she likes a rough and tough man and they're getting on really well. I think they're going to try and get away soon, maybe have a Caribbean holiday, but they're just enjoying each other's company for the minute and having a bit of fun."

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