MARRIAGE proved not to be a bridge too far for one determined woman, who used a leap year tradition to her advantage.


Nicola McGee took matters into her own hands when she came to Kendal's Victoria Bridge to pop the question to her startled partner.


The 27-year-old got a resounding 'yes' from new fiancee, Steven Roberts, 25, who said there was 'no chance' he would have turned her down after being in a relationship for six years.


Nicola managed to fool Steven into thinking they were going to Homebase to look at furniture but pulled him to one side on the Batman Bridge and got down on one knee.


Kendal Business Improvement District (BID) released a statement saying that anybody who proposed on Victoria Bridge on the leap year day would be entitled to some help towards their wedding - but little did Nicola know that she would be getting a free ceremony, courtesy of the Castle Green Hotel, money off her engagement ring, a makeover, a dress and a meal.


Nicola, from Whitehaven, said: "I just thought this was my opportunity. I wanted him to ask but I feel like I've waited for too long - I'm an impatient female!

"I was very nervous on the drive down and when we got to the bridge we stopped to watch the ducks and I had to build up some courage before I could ask him."


But Steven wasted no time in replying.


He told The Gazette: "I was speechless, but I love her so I thought I would say yes! I'm very, very happy."


It was Nicola's mum, Wendy Windle, who was more nervous than the bride-to-be.


"She said it was a long way for me to come if I didn't get the win!" joked Nicola.


"She was welling-up just thinking about it."


There is a very touching reason behind Nicola's proposal, other than the fact that she has found her soul mate.


Her grandfather, Calvert Long, has been diagnosed with dementia and she is desperate for him to walk her down the aisle while he is still able to do so and now he will get the chance.


The couple are hoping to get married in the next few months, with May 4 being Steven's preferred date because that is International Star Wars Day.


Sarah Williams, chief executive of Kendal BID, said: "We wanted to raise awareness that Kendal has had a tough time but life has gone back to normal.

"We got in touch with several local businesses and they all thought it was a great idea.

"We're really delighted for Nicola and Steven and we hope they enjoy their big day."