Andy Chapman and Emma Harris at Highclere Castle

by Lynn Cox

Downton Abbey is Emma Harris's favourite programme, so she was delighted when her boyfriend whisked her off to the setting of the TV show for a surprise day out.

And her happiness was complete when romantic Andy Chapman went down on one knee and asked her to marry him.

Emma, from Upnor, had gone to her office for a 9am meeting when Andy, 38, turned up and took her to Highclere Castle in Hampshire where the popular programme is filmed.

Towards the end of the day, he proposed to 30-year-old Emma in the beautiful grounds of the castle.

In Downton, Matthew proposed to Lady Mary Crawley in the grounds of the stately home in a snow-filled romantic scene.

Downton Abbey sweethearts Matthew and Lady Mary tie the knot

Emma and Andy were able to tour Highclere thanks to a special event that saw people buy tickets for a tour with the proceeds going to the Young Epilepsy charity.

Emma said: "When we drove up the huge driveway to the castle I knew it was Downton Abbey, I was so excited. It's my favourite show on TV.

"We walked around the grounds of the estate and then out of the blue, Andy proposed.

"I was overwhelmed and so happy to accept in this beautiful setting.

"The whole experience was lovely, thank you so much to Young Epilepsy for organising the day, what you do is such a great cause."

Young Epilepsy is the national charity which is dedicated to children and young people aged 25 and under in the UK living with epilepsy.

Christine Mankelow, from the charity, added: "Andy told us about the proposal before the day. It was such a lovely idea and we were more than happy to accommodate the happy couple."

Epilepsy affects more than 112,000 children and young people aged 25 and under. The open day at the castle raised £20,000 for the charity.

For more information, visit www.youngepilepsy.org.uk.