Coronation Street's Shayne Ward is engaged

Shayne Ward has announced his engagement to long-term girlfriend Sophie Austin, with the Coronation Street star popping the question over the Christmas period.

Shayne announced the news on his Instagram page last night, simply sharing a photo of the huge diamond ring on Sophie’s hand alongside the caption: “#MrsWardToBe”.

The pair were quickly inundated with congratulatory messages from fans, with the engagement coming just over one year after they welcomed their first child together.

Sophie gave birth to daughter Willow May in December last year, with Shayne announcing the news in a sweet Instagram post at the time.

He wrote: “Proud to share our incredible news. Me and Sophie had a beautiful baby girl.

“We are completely besotted and in love with the deepest of hearts. Our world, Willow May Ward.”

Although it is currently unknown when Sophie and Shayne plan to tie the knot, 2018 is already shaping up to be a busy year for the former X Factor winner, with the star set to bow out of Coronation Street in May.

Shayne has played Aidan Connor in the ITV soap since August 2015, with sources promising that his exit will be part of an “explosive” storyline.

Insiders previously teased: “Everybody wants Shayne leaving to be a huge part of the show next year. Bosses are working on it at the moment and have something really explosive planned for the character.

“Nobody will see this coming. Viewers are going to be absolutely stunned. It’s going to be a blow for the fans but also a massive TV moment.

“Shayne has become one of Corrie’s most popular actors. He’s a huge hit with fans and has even won awards for his performances.”

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