The pair have been keeping their romance secret for six months

Maura Higgins and Pete Wicks have been dating since last AugustCredit: Getty

Pete has always been known for his bachelor lifestyleCredit: ITV
The pair have been keen to keep their relationship a secret and have only given fans small snippets of information.

However, in a new interview, eternal bachelor Pete has talked about why he has never settled down properly with a woman.

Over the years the lothario has dated a string of beauties including Megan McKenna and Chloe Sims.

Pete is now completely smitten with Maura, but in a new interview has revealed why he has never been in a long term romance.

Speaking to The Times, he said: “[Settling down] is the bit I just can’t do.

“The minute a relationship gets to the point where I seem to be having an impact on someone’s life, it scares the shit out of me.”

Speaking about past relationships, Pete added: “Yeah. Over the years, people have tried to understand me, but if you don’t understand yourself, it’s very difficult for anyone else to understand you.”

Meanwhile, the couple have been enjoying a string of cosy dates and trips away.

Maura recently posted from the exclusive Sheesh restaurant in Chigwell, a known date spot for the Towie cast.

This was followed by a trip to the Soho Farmhouse in Oxfordshire, where rooms start from £295 per night as well as an annual membership of £2,750.

I’m a Celebrity star Maura and Pete also shared a glimpse inside their last holiday, a £243 a night lakehouse break.

The reality TV couple jetted to Maura’s native Ireland for the festive period and stayed at the Glasson Lakehouse Spa & Golf Club.

Last week, The Sun shared exclusive pictures of Maura and Pete packing up a Mercedes with cases as they headed off on a another trip together.

After months of speculation about their romance , Pete’s best pal Sam Thompson cheekily “welcomed Maura to the family” when she appeared on I’m A Celebrity spin-off, Unpacked.

Maura could face a huge blow has Pete struggles to ‘settle down’Credit: Splash
Fresh out of the jungle, Maura also addressed the romance rumours on an appearance of This Morning, telling Alison Hammond: “You do forget about the cameras, and I do like to keep things private.

“But let’s be real, I said it. I can’t remember saying it, but I said the words ‘I miss him.'”

“I do miss him, like I missed all my friends and family.

“Honestly, he’s been so supportive, honestly. I didn’t know if he was still in Strictly and I’m so proud of him, he’s proud of me, and I can’t wait to see him when I get back.”