Gypsy teens in TV ‘assault’ to wed
THE gypsy girl who was "grabbed" in TV scenes that shocked viewers is engaged — to the teenager who snatched her.
Cheyenne Pidgley, 15, was dragged into a dark car park by traveller John McFadyen where he tried to force her to kiss him.
The scenes — shown earlier this year on Channel 4's Big Fat Gypsy Weddings — outraged viewers who said the custom of grabbing was "assault".
At the time, Cheyenne insisted she was not interested in John, 17.
But yesterday she flashed her sparkling diamond engagement ring and said: "I can't wait to have my very own Big Fat Gypsy Wedding."
Up for grabs ... John McFadyen tries to kiss
Cheyenne Pidgley on telly
Cheyenne Pidgley on telly
Property developer John said: "It was love at first sight when I saw Cheyenne at my sister's wedding.
"I tried chatting her up but she wouldn't have any of it, so I grabbed her.
"You could say it was love at first grab."
But John soon regretted it after the TV firm who made the show was slammed for allowing the grabbing to go ahead.
He said: "I phoned her the day after and apologised. I was all right because on the telly my face was blurred out — but everyone knew who Cheyenne was. There was so much fuss.
"I was accused of being a virtual rapist and all sorts — but I didn't even get to kiss her.
"I just grabbed her hand and pulled her outside.
"Grabbing is part of our culture. It's not violent or frightening. You get their attention and grab them. All us gypsy lads do it."
The couple, from Esher in Surrey, got together in the summer and John proposed a month later.
They are now planning their wedding.
Cheyenne said: "I want the whole works. The huge wedding dress, the cake, everything — just like in the series."
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