HUGH Robertson, the MP for Faversham and Mid Kent, has announced his engagement to girlfriend Anna Copson. Mr Robertson, 39, and Miss Copson, 29, from Trottiscliffe, near West Malling, have been together since May 2000.

They were both students at King's School, Canterbury. Miss Copson is currently running the Canterbury office of the international auctioneers Phillips. She was by Mr Robertson's side throughout his election campaign. He said: "Not everyone is keen on marrying an MP but fortunately I was already a parliamentary candidate when we met so she has only known me as a politician."

The couple plan to tie the knot during the Easter parliamentary recess before setting up home in the constituency. Mr Robertson added: "I am really looking forward to married life."