A COUPLE won the hearts of the public after their romantic photo was voted the most popular in a Valentine’s Day competition.

True romantics Barry and Jillian Simmons were out for a family shopping trip at the Cornmill Centre when they decided to have their picture taken in the Valentine’s photo booth for the chance to win a luxury overnight stay at Rockliffe Hall.

Their photo was uploaded on the shopping centre’s Facebook page, where it received the most ‘Likes’.

Mr Simmons said: “We’re really looking forward to spending some quality time together and enjoying this rare indulgence at the amazing Rockliffe Hall hotel.

“We can’t wait to put our feet up, relax and enjoy the fantastic spa facilities and three course meal.

“We’re regular shoppers at the Cornmill but I’d forgotten about the photo booth when we saw it in centre on Saturday.

“We thought we’d have a go but didn’t expect to win. We’re over the moon and after a busy few months are looking forward to a well-deserved treat.”

The couple first met in Darlington’s former Mardi Gras nightclub in 1999 and have been together since.

They have been married for 14 years and have two children, 13 year-old Sophie and seven year-old Elisa who also had a go in the photo booth competition alongside Mr Simmons’ parents.

Susan Young, centre manager at the Cornmill, said: “We are really pleased with the response to the Valentine’s photo booth, it was fantastic to see so many people having fun and getting into the romantic spirit.

"Jillian and Barry are very deserving winners and we really hope they enjoy their stay at the fantastic Rockliffe Hall.”