Fate had a hand in bringing lovebirds Sam Davies and Matt Lindner together - they met when their cars collided in a gymnasium car park one morning.

Despite a shaky beginning, their relationship soon blossomed into something very special and yesterday they were named one of the most romantic couples in the country as part of a nationwide competition.

As a prize they will spend tonight at the Millennium Hotel in Mayfair, London, at a celebrity Valentine's Ball.

The couple of Fiveways, Brighton, were nominated by Sam's mum Patricia.

Gym instructor Matt, 23, has completed a cookery course so he can cook gluten-free meals for law student Sam, who is allergic.

He also surprised Sam by taking her on a weekend trip to Paris for her 20th birthday in June.

Sam said: "I really believe it was fate that helped us meet in that car park because we feel we are meant to be together. Romance is so important for any relationship."