Alan Sugar's 'apprentices' to marry

Syed Ahmed, perhaps the most controversial contestant on the BBC reality TV series The Apprentice, has spoken for the first time about his plans to marry fellow contestant Michelle Dewberry, who recently revealed she is pregnant.

Ms Dewberry, who went on to win the popular TV series and land the coveted £100,000-a-year job with the business tycoon Sir Alan Sugar, should be settling into her new position. But instead she is nervously awaiting Sir Alan's return from a summer holiday on his yacht, to learn her fate.

However, Mr Ahmed, 32, said he and Ms Dewsberry were very happy and very much together - also revealing that they hoped to marry. He added that Ms Dewberry, 26, nicknamed "The Blonde" by the tabloid press, was considering converting to Islam.

"It took a while for us both to adjust to the situation but I am now absolutely clear about what I want," said Mr Ahmed. "I am in love with Michelle and want to marry her. I am thrilled and excited at the prospect of becoming a father. And I want to marry Michelle as soon as I can - before the baby is born if possible."

The couple's relationship shocked millions of fans when it was revealed shortly after the The Apprentice finished its 12-week run in May. While Ms Dewberry was viewed as something of a golden girl, Mr Ahmed was portrayed as a pantomime villain, and subsequently referred to simply as "the cocky one".

A spokesman for Sir Alan refused to comment.