Ricky Hatton and Claire Sweeney make red carpet debut as a couple after going public with romance

Romance has been confirmed again between Claire Sweeney and Ricky Hatton as the pair were snapped at a huge event in Manchester.

The loved-up pair looked close during the opening of the Co-Op Live this Saturday, April 20, 2024. The brand new indoor arena opened its doors for a trial show with Rick Astley before its official opening by comedian Peter Kay on Tuesday, April 23 and aims to attract major events away from London with the likes of Take That, Eric Clapton and Liam Gallagher set to perform there later this year.

Claire and Ricky were seen beaming at the cameras during the VIP event, with the Coronation Street star glowing in an elegant white jumpsuit, her luscious blonde locks curled to perfection. Meanwhile, former boxer Ricky was all smiles with his arm wrapped around his other half and mastered the casual-chic aesthetic as he sported a navy T-shirt, a black blazer, a pair of torn jeans and black trainers.

The actress, known as Cassie Plummer in Corrie, is said to be head over heels for her Dancing On Ice co-star as the pair have fallen for one another behind the scenes. Romance rumours were ignited when snaps of the duo looking cosy during one of their date nights emerged but, after months of speculation about their romance, they have since taken things to the next step, no longer shy to show off their love by sharing their first snap together online on the set of the ITV competition.

Ricky Hatton was celebrating the actress’ birthday on April 17 and captioned the shot with a heart-warming message, captioning: “Happy Birthday Claire. Have the best day gorgeous. Lots of love, Ricky.” But the smitten lovebirds have made sure they keep nothing hidden from one another and made a huge decision for the benefit of their growing bond.

Speaking to Mail Online, a source close to the star said: “Claire an Ricky have become really close. She wasn’t looking for a relationship but then Ricky came along and it just felt right and natural and she’s really happy.” The insider then revealed that Claire was “really looking forward” to welcome Ricky deeper into her life.

“She signed up for a reality TV show and met a great guy so it feels a bit like winning the lottery and she’s really counting her blessings as it all came from nowhere and often that’s the best way”, the insider added, “she’s now really looking forward to introducing Ricky to her family and friends soon and they are really looking forward to the guy who has put a smile on Claire’s face.” Recent reports have also shown that the relationship is only going from strength to strength, with Claire putting her £2.3 million London home for sale, signalling a fresh start.