How Claire Sweeney fell for 'hysterical' Ricky Hatton: Brookside star's pals ... trends now

Claire Sweeney's pals have revealed how the actress fell for 'hysterical' boxing legend Ricky Hatton's knockout charm. 

Friends told MailOnline, she has branded the retired World Champion 'one of the funniest people' she's ever met - and that the pair have grown 'incredibly close' ahead of taking the next big step by plotting a Summer getaway.

A source revealed: 'Anyone who knows Ricky knows how funny and entertaining he can be. But Claire had no idea until she met him on Dancing on Ice, and that's what really attracted her to him initially...

'He constantly had her in hysterics and they grew closer and closer after that...

'Things have become serious quite quickly and they are just really enjoying each other's company and seeing how things develop from here...

'They are also discussing possibly going on holiday together to Tenerife the Summer which will see their relationship go to the next level.'

Claire's friends confessed they believed she could prove to be a good influence on Ricky who has suffered from personal issues in the past.

Our source added: 'Ricky's had a bit of a rollercoaster lifestyle in the past. Since retiring there has often been a lot of drinking and partying which he combines with his boxing training and his coaching of other fighters.

'But Ricky is keen to draw a line under a lot of that. He still likes a drink and a laugh, but he's back on track and open-minded to settling down...

'That's why his friends and family are delighted someone like Claire has come along. They think it could be just the right moment for them both and everyone just wants them to be happy.'

Details of the pair's relationship emerged last week. They reportedly begun a romance after meeting on ITV's Dancing On Ice.

Sources said they had developed 'electric chemistry' during the show. Last weekend the couple were spotted enjoying a pub crawl in Greater

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