Crystal Swing’s Derek proposes with Santa’s help

Christmas came early for Crystal Swing star Derek Burke, after he enlisted the help of Santa Claus to propose to his long-term girlfriend.

The 25-year-old chose a singularly festive setting in which to pop the question to Claire McAuliffe — surprising his partner on a visit to Santa at Bunratty Folk Park in Clare.

The singer, who performs in the Cork family band with sister Dervla, 24, and mother Mary, 52, has been inundated by well-wishers since announcing his engagement to Claire, from Midleton, Co Cork.