‘The Only Way Is Essex’ star Joey Essex has spoken for the first time about rumours that he’s been enjoying dates with Little Mix singer Perrie Edwards, Rumours of a romance between the two have been recently quashed by Edward’s camp, but it appears there’s a little more to it than that, as Essex admits the pair have gone on dates.

joey essexJoey Essex says he exchanged numbers with Pierre Edwards.

When asked by The Mirror if he’d been going on dates with Zayn Malik’s ex Essex said, “She’s a really nice girl. We exchanged numbers, then we met up a few times. She’s just come out of a really serious relationship and I’ve had serious relationships in the past.”

More: Perrie Edwards And Joey Essex HAVE Been Going On Dates

“She just needs to go out and have fun,” Essex added. When pressed further and asked if the two had perhaps shared a snog, Essex answered, “Obviously, we done what we done.” Earlier in the week Edwards’ manager told MailOnline, “Perrie is not dating Joey.”

However last week Essex’s manager confirmed the pair had enjoyed dates saying, 'Joey Essex exchanged numbers with Perrie Edwards at The Pride Of Britain Awards and met up a couple of times however, Joey is single.' 

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Edwards has been single since ending her engagement with former One Direction-er Zayn Malik. Essex has also enjoyed a high profile love life in the past, dating ‘TOWIE’ co-star Sam Faiers and Amy Willerton.