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Catherine Addison-Swan

Strictly's Kristina Rihanoff and Ben Cohen engaged nine years after meeting on show

Strictly Come Dancing stars Kristina Rihanoff and Ben Cohen have announced their engagement, nine years after first meeting on the BBC show.

Pro dancer Kristina said that the romantic proposal was "the biggest surprise of my life" after Ben got down on one knee while the pair were on holiday in the Maldives, with the big question written in the sand. The 45-year-old told Hello! magazine: "I was overcome with emotion and said: 'Yes, yes and yes' straight away."

Former rugby star Ben, 44, was paired up with Kristina when he took part in Strictly's 11th series back in 2013. The pair welcomed their first child together, a daughter called Mila, in 2016.

READ MORE: Strictly Come Dancing's Tony Adams makes emotional appeal as he quits show due to injury

Fellow stars as well as fans of the pair rushed to congratulate them on their engagement after Kristina shared the news on her Instagram page, writing: "Dreams do come true".

Former Strictly contestant and It Takes Two presenter Zoe Ball said: "Congratulations darling, so happy for you all."

Meanwhile, I'm A Celebrity star Gillian McKeith wrote: "This is amazing news. Perfect together! Congratulations."

Strictly fans left a series of sweet messages for the happy couple, with one person commenting: "Congratulations, could not be happier for a more beautiful couple."

Another added: "What a beautiful proposal, so romantic. Bet Mila is so excited about being a flower girl!"

"Aww, amazing that you had no idea!" a third fan said. "Congratulations and much love to you both."

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