Maura's mates are 'worried' about Pete

As a street snogging session seems to confirm things are hotting up between Maura Higgins and Pete Wicks, a source tells new her pals are warning her to be cautious

- Eve Macdonald

After months of speculation, reality TV stars Maura Higgins and Pete Wicks seemed to confirm they were a couple after they were caught packing on the PDA in the street last week – but friends of Maura’s are said to be “worried”.

Rumours of a romance between the two began circulating in August when they were spotted at a London hotspot together and, according to an onlooker, “looked totally in love” and shared a “very passionate” kiss. Maura, 33, also appeared to reference a budding relationship when it was announced that Pete, 36, was set to appear in this year’s Strictly line-up. Underneath a post in which he was revealed as one of the celebrity contestants, Maura jokingly commented, “I know what those hips can do. Proud of you!”

Maura also opened up about their relationship in a podcast released last week in which she chatted with dating guru Paul C Brunson. Speaking on We Need To Talk, she said they shared “the same humour”. “We’re friends,” she said. “We just instantly clicked. We just get on very, very well – very, very well. I adore him. He’s amazing. It’s just nonstop giggling and laughing.”

But those closest to Maura are said to be issuing a word of warning because she’s been hurt in the past. “Maura’s friends are so happy for her but they can’t help but feel worried too,” a source said. “She’s had her heart broken in the past and they’re concerned that could happen again.”