Coronation Street's Sam Aston gets engaged to long-term girlfriend Briony Gardner

Congratulations are in order for Coronation Street actor Sam Aston, who proposed to his girlfriend live on stage over the weekend.

The actor, who's played Chesney Brown since 2013, was at an annual golf event when he got up on stage in front of 250 guests and popped the question to partner Briony Gardner.

The pair have been dating for five years, but they first met all the way back in 2009, at a theatre workshop in Bury. After quickly forming a firm friendship, they made things official in 2012, and have been inseparable ever since.

Briony, a yoga enthusiast and entrepreneur, frequently accompanies her boyfriend to industry events, so fans of the actor have gotten to know her quite well – she's even build up quite the Instagram following of her own.

Sharing the special moment with her 2k followers on the platform, she wrote: 'After sharing over 5 years together, 4 Al, Andy and Sam golf days and 3 doggies, 2 hearts have now become 1 as Sam and I are...ENGAGED!! (How is it possible I can even say that out loud?!)'

'Sam got down on one knee last night at his annual golf do and proposed in front of 250 people and my heart could burst with happiness!! (When did I get so lucky?!) I can't wait to marry my whole world but until then, I'm just floating in this bliss called love.'

Sam then followed up with a post on his account too, opting for a simple caption: 'Me and my beautiful bride to be...'.

Fans were overjoyed by the news, and many have congratulated them on their happy news.

'Congratulations to you both hope you have a long happy life together xx,' said one, whilst another wrote: 'Oh my god! What a beautiful ring! Congratulations you two.'

A third added: 'Congratulations @brionygardner @samaston93 . Lovely news. We are all made up for the both of you.'