Earlier this week, it was reported the actor - who plays Pete Barton in the ITV soap - had enjoyed several dates with the Australian dancer.

And last night, the couple took their blossoming romance to the next stage as they were pictured out and about for the first time.

The pair looked smitten as they left the Grand Pacific restaurant in Manchester with Anthony placing a loving arm around his new beau.

Just a couple of days ago, Dianne took to Twitter to share a clip of one of her dates with the 33-year-old at a fairground. 

The stunning red head poked fun at Anthony as he attempted to climb a wobbly later, but ended up falling off halfway.

“Not worth watching but worth tweeting awwww you did well this was your best one after 6 try's @AnthonyQuinny #goodtrymate [sic],” she joked. 

Anthony took the dig in his stride as he replied: “Nailed it.” 

The soap star was said to have been introduced to Dianne - who partnered Reverend Richard Coles on the BBC One competition - by finalist Gemma Atkinson.

Rumours of a romance first circulated at the show's final where the pair are said to have got cosy, and at one point, Dianne even dashed to greet Anthony with a hug.

A source told The Sun: “Anthony and Dianne looked very cosy on Saturday night in the studio. He has told pals he is really into her and made the trip down to London to see her.”

Dianne was one of the new professionals who joined this year who partner Reverend Richard Coles.