TWO children who had stars in their eyes after meeting on an Isle of Wight holiday park almost 20 years ago made a return visit to the Island recently.

But shortly after pitching up at The Orchards in Newbridge, it became clear this was going to be more than just a stroll down memory lane for the couple.

That's because Rachel Hughes' childhood sweetheart, Jonathan Palmer, had brought with him not only a tent and cooking stove, but also a proposal of marriage.

The couple had met as 12-year-olds while on holiday with their families at The Orchards — and it was beside the park's heated outdoor pool they had exchanged their first kiss.

In readiness for popping the question, Jonathan had strewn the pool with crimson roses, organised a pianist and singer, and engaged a local professional photographer to be present.

After leading Rachel to the water's edge — and to the delight of other holiday guests present — he went down on one knee and received just the answer for which he'd been hoping!

Following their first meeting, Rachel and Jonathan's families joined up for subsequent holidays at the park, and the pair's love affair blossomed.

When they were old enough, they began going away for camping trips without their mums and dads, and eventually moved in together in their home town of Bedford.

Now both aged 30, their next visit to The Orchards will be as man and wife.

Co-owner of The Orchards Julie Gray said it was a perfectly executed plan, and one which she and her husband Tim had known about in advance.

Julie said: "We were thrilled when we heard of Jonathan's idea and gave him all the help we could – but, of course, we could only cross our fingers that Rachel would say yes.

"We're so delighted The Orchards was able to play its part in the couple's romantic journey, and that the story had such a happy fairy tale ending."