IRISH eyes were smiling on romantic Jason O’Keefe who sprung a surprise on his sweetheart Hayley Scott in front of a capacity crowd at the St. Patrick’s Day Ball held at the Gulf Hotel’s Convention Centre.

Just as the charity raffle was about to be concluded Master of Ceremonies David Bloomer announced that he had been handed a ticket and told that should he announce the number a marriage proposal would follow.
The popular Radio Bahrain presenter and reporter duly obliged and when number 1194 was called out Jason made his way to the stage much to Hayley’s surprise.
He got down on one knee in front of 600 people and asked for her hand in marriage.
Silence descended the room as the celebratory crowd hushed to hear her answer.
Hayley made her way to the front of the dance floor – and with Jason having the luck of the Irish (his grandparents come from Cork) – she said … YES!
Jason, 35, who works in logistics, told GulfWeekly: “Capturing Hayley’s heart is the best prize I could ever win!”
Hayley, 25, from Saar, a personal assistant in a bank, said: “I was absolutely shocked and overwhelmed. It was a very romantic gesture.”
The expat couple from England first met after being invited to a dinner by mutual friends more than a year ago in Dubai where Jason is based.
Hayley added: “We instantly hit it off and soon became very good friends.” Romance blossomed and now Jason, from London, and Hayley, from Grimsby, are busy making plans for their big day.
And it’s not the first time that radio personality Mr Bloomer has successfully played cupid.
Ten years ago he was asked to propose ‘on air’ to a young lady on behalf of a listener. They were so happy they invited him to the wedding!
He said: “I think Jason was very brave to ask his girlfriend to marry him in front of so many people because you can never be sure what the answer will be – and it could have be a long, lonely walk back to the table.
“I’m delighted it worked out and would like to wish the happy couple a lifetime of happiness.”
The sold out annual Irish Society Ball last Thursday night proved to be another memorable event for all who attended.
Members of the Irish dance group Desert Dance entertained alongside Saudi-based band Get Reel and the Beat Club – flown over by Gulf Air especially for the party.

Words and photos
Stan Szecowka