The sacking of Crossroads stars Ronald Allen and Sue Lloyd has saved their real-life romance.  The couple got engaged nearly three years ago - but have never made it to the altar.

 

Now, however, shocked into action by the dramatic ending of their cosy TV partnership, they are at long last set to name the day.  For Sue it's the day she's been dreaming of.  But, at 45, she's not going dizzy over it.

 

"I'll probably wear something simple and practical, like a suit or a dress that I can use afterwards," she said.  "A Princess Diana wedding dress is lovely when you're a certain age, but I don't see myself in that now."

 

Because the pair - known to millions as David and Barbara Hunter - are so adored by fans, the wedding may have to be a hush-hush affair to prevent it turning into a showbiz circus.  "It will be a very quiet ceremony and on-one will know about it," said Sue.

 

Naturally the couple's plans are tinged with sadness.  A close friend admitted last night:  "Upset?  Of course they're upset but they won't say so, they're too proud for that.  But the fact that they've got to leave Crossroads has really made them think about the future.  They've been so happy living together in Ronnie's flat in Edgbaston that I think they didn't really want to change anything.

 

"But now they realise it's decision time.  They are planning a wedding because they know they'd be lost without the other.  It's been a real shock getting the sack - especially for Ronnie.  He thought he had a job for life with Crossroads so he has never pushed things with Sue.  Now he knows work could move them apart, and he doesn't want to lose her."

 

Sue can't pinpoint why she loves 50-year old Ronald - but she was first attracted by his humour and dashing good looks.

 

"He makes me laugh a lot, he's caring and he's a dab hand around the house as well," she added.  "He is a much better cook than I am.  I get a bit panicky, but Ronnie is just bloody good.  His specialities are beautifully-done roasts and casseroles."