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Tuning in to wedding channel

29/ 5/2007

PROPOSING to a partner can be a nerve-wracking experience.

And one brave Rochdale lad didn't make it any easier on himself when he proposed via the big BBC screen in Manchester.

Anthony Powell, aged 20, decided a big decision needed a big gesture when he enticed 21-year-old girlfriend Claire Mitchell into Manchester for a shopping trip, secretly planning to pop the question.

He got down on one knee as the words 'Claire Mitchell will you marry me? All my love Anthony' were emblazoned across the screen in Exchange Square.

During the proposal friends and family were hiding nearby and after Claire said Yes they rushed out to congratulate the happy pair.

Anthony gave Claire a white gold and diamond engagement ring before the group headed for a meal.

Anthony said: "I was very nervous - what if she had said No? I picked the big BBC screen because I knew I could get Claire into Manchester as she loves shopping and also because we watched some of the World Cup football on the screen last summer.

"I thought it would be a great idea to use the screen to surprise Claire as she walked past."

Anthony and Claire have known each other since they were 10 years old, but Anthony first plucked up the courage to ask her out three years ago. They have lived together for two years and recently bought their first home in Rochdale.