A ROMANTIC proposal made on a padlock attached to a Whitney-on-Wye bridge has sparked a search to find out who the couple are.

A padlock declaring "Emma, will you marry me? Ben X" was secretly attached to the railings of Whitney Bridge in the early hours of Valentine’s Day.

Bridge owners Maggie Taylor and Grahame Penny would love to find out whether Emma accepted Ben's proposal, which has also sparked a fundraising idea.

They have partnered with UK specialists Lovelocks so others can lock their love on the ancient bridge to raise money towards the monument's maintenance costs.

Ms Taylor said: "Ben and Emma’s is now the first lovelock to appear on a specially designated area at Whitney Bridge. Many more are expected to follow, as couples show their commitment to the world with a personally engraved padlock.

"We have no idea who Ben and Emma are, but we do know they love each other. We’d love to know if Emma accepted Ben’s proposal so if anyone can throw any light on the matter please let us know.”

Lovelocks are making heart-shaped locks with no keys, available to order via the Whitney Bridge website for £15 including engraving and shipping. They will remain as a permanent fixture.

Ms Taylor added: "People everywhere have a special affinity with our bridge and we welcome anyone who wants to take this special opportunity to make a very personal statement with their own unique memento.

"However, to protect the integrity of the structure, only love locks placed in the designated area will be allowed to remain in place – padlocks found anywhere else on the bridge will be removed.”

To find out more go to www.whitneybridge.co.uk. If you know who the couple are call 01497 831669.