'Pop Idol' contestants to wed

Pop Idol contestants Mark Rhodes and Zoe Birkett are getting married, The Sun reports today.

Mark, who came second in series two, and Zoe, who finished fourth in the first, have been dating for around four months.

"We’re really happy to have got engaged and our family and friends are too," said the pair in a joint statement. "It’s likely to be a long engagement - so no wedding bells just yet! - but we’re looking forward to the future together."

A friend told the newspaper that Mark, 23, popped the question last week. "Zoe was blown away when Mark proposed and said yes straight away," said the pal. "She has been Mark’s rock since his mum was diagnosed with lung cancer in May. Zoe even moved to Wolverhampton to be with him and his family.

"Although they are both young, they know this is what they want. Since Mark’s mum became ill he’s realised what is important to him, and Zoe is top of the list."