A YOUNG man from County Durham underwent a gruelling grooming process to look like seven other suitors in search of love.

Aston Fairhurst, 21, of Newton Aycliffe, appeared in five episodes of E4 dating show Game of Clones last week.

The college student was approached and interviewed by TV bosses before being whisked off to spend five days in a mansion where he and seven others fought it out for one woman’s attention.

“I really loved the experience and would probably go on another TV show,” he said.

Despite fitting the bill on the surface, amateur Thai boxer Mr Fairhurst reached the final three but told The Northern Echo no love was lost.

He added: “There was no animosity - it was just a laugh and we’re all really good friends now.”