Unlucky in love Lauren Pope and Sam Mucklow are officially in a relationship – and confirm their romance with steamy kiss on Towie series finale

UNLUCKY-in-love Lauren Pope and Sam Mucklow are officially in a relationship – and will confirm their romance with a steamy kiss on the season finale of Towie.

Essex hunk Sam was quick to dump his blossoming fling with Shelby Tribble in pursuit of Lauren, with the pair falling for each other after going on a series of dates.

Sam’s new romance comes just weeks after his split from Ex on the Beach beauty Nicole Bass – while Lauren hasn’t publicly dated anyone since her relationship with co-star Jon Clark came to a bitter end.

A source said: “It was clear from the moment they started filming together that there was an instant spark between them.

“Sam had been getting close to Shelby but his head was turned after getting to know Lauren better and their romance has quickly developed into something more serious.

“They kiss on screen for the first time during the Towie finale that airs this Sunday and hoping to still be together by the time the show returns next year."

Sam set his sights on Lauren only shortly after going on dates with newly single Shelby, who only recently split from co-star Pete Wicks.

Shelby was quick to shut down reports that she was "embarrassed and p***** off" following the snub.

Sam confirmed the end of his relationship with Nicole on Instagram story, saying: "I keep getting asked about this and yes I'm very sad to say we have split.

"But you never know what the future holds, always stay open-minded."

The last episode of Towie will not feature James Lock and Yazmin Oukhellou after the pair have decided to quit the series in a desperate last bid to save their relationship.

A source close to the couple said: “James and Yaz have taken a break from the show but are both set to return in the New Year.

“They have struggled with their relationship this series but love and care for each other so want to do whatever it takes to get back on track."