THE course of true love did not run smoothly when romantic Warren Heaps took his partner out for a surprise celebration at the scene of their first date in Blackburn.

Warren, 38, from Green Lane, Blackburn, was looking to recreate the magic of the night he met and fell in love with Angela Paul, 41, at the town centre Utopia nightclub two years ago.

However, he did not get the chance to whisper sweet nothings as, unbeknown to them, the venue is closed for a £1million renovation.

"The place was literally a building site," said Warren. "We turned up expecting an evening out together to celebrate our anniversary. But all we got was a load of noise, dust and drilling.

"I am a builder by trade, so it wasn't exactly my idea of a romantic night out."

But just as it seemed that Cupid's arrow was well and truly buried beneath a pile of workmen's rubble, the owners of the new nightclub that is taking Utopia's place stepped in.

Heaven & Hell's area manager Andy Appleton, 32, heard about Warren and Angela's plight and gave the couple an all expenses paid meal at Tiggi's restaurant to make up for the club being closed.

Andy has also invited them to the VIP opening of the new super-club on August 11.

Andy said: "I wanted to look after Warren and Angela. They were all dressed up ready to celebrate their anniversary, and I wanted to make sure they still had an evening out to remember.

"I've invited them down to the VIP night, so they can come and reminisce in Heaven & Hell before it officially opens to the public."

The couple, who have recently moved in together, have confirmed they will be attending the opening night.

Warren said: "We are looking forward to an extended anniversary celebration on the 11th."