A BASINGSTOKE dad has made it onto a romance publisher’s shortlist for its Man of the Year competition.

Father-of-one David Forster, who lives in Chineham, has been selected for Mills & Boon’s Hot 15, part of its search to find a cover star for their lead Valentine’s title next year.

The publisher reviewed over 300 initial entries, searching for candidates with a combination of fun, authenticity and the romantic qualities necessary.

23 year-old David, who works at Lloyds as a personal banking advisor, has now made it through to the last 15, who are known as The Hot 15.

The next stage of the competition is down to the British public, who can vote for their favourite man via the Mills & Boon Facebook page.

The three candidates with the most votes will then be presented to a judging panel including actress Denise Welch, Strictly Come Dancing’s Robin Windsor and Rosie Nixon, editor of HELLO!

The judges will select the winning inaugural Man of the Year 2016, who, in addition to gracing the cover of the Valentine’s Day release, will receive a luxury holiday for two worth £3,000.

Voting closes on Sunday, November 1.

*You can vote for David online at Facebook.com/millsandboon.