'Our hearts were open': Richard Osman on preparing to wed for the first time at 51

Richard Osman is set to wed actress Ingrid Oliver. (Getty Images)
Richard Osman is set to wed actress Ingrid Oliver. (Getty Images)

Richard Osman has opened up about his plans to marry for the first time in his 50s, revealing that becoming engaged was a "pleasant surprise".

The 51-year-old TV star and author – who is due to wed Doctor Who actress Ingrid Oliver, 45, this December – noted that he immediately knew they would walk down the aisle.

He told the Mail on Sunday's You magazine: "It was never not going to happen.

"It was a very pleasant surprise, but we were both ready for it. Our hearts were open, and if your heart’s open the opportunity is there."

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Osman has two children – a daughter Ruby, 24, and 21-year-old son Sonny – from a previous relationship that ended 15 years ago, and they are expected to be present at the nuptials.

He met his fiancee 18 months ago when she was a contestant on House of Games and they went for impromptu drinks after filming.

Recalling the moment, the presenter said: "I liked her very much but I never socialise after shows because I’ve got another one the next day.

"Happily [rowing Olympian] Matthew Pinsent was on the same show, he's such a lovely fella, and he said, 'Let's go for drinks,' and I said, 'You know, this evening I think I will.'"

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Despite his excitement ahead of becoming a newlywed, Osman has also revealed the effects of ageing now he is in his 50s.

Of his passion for exercise, he said: "My skeleton lets me down, so at the moment I’m doing everything I can to stop having my knee replaced."

While the former Pointless host has ruled out running, he has become a particular fan of boxing.

He said: "I'm fairly gentle but there's just something about having gloves on and hitting a bag."

Watch: Longstanding celebrity relationships