A DESPERATE Hartford woman faces being torn apart from her Hungarian sweetheart - because they can't afford to pay for his university course.

Emma Clarke and Istvan Kaplan have just three weeks to find £6,000, or Istvan will have to go back to Hungary.

The couple, who live in Maple Grove, met at Hartford Tennis Club in March.

Istvan was in England as an au pair, trying to learn English to go to a university in Hungary.

He wasn't accepted in Hungary but was delighted when Manchester University offered him a place on a new business degree course starting on September 20.

But because he lives in a country outside the EU, the course will cost him £6,000 per year instead of the usual £1,000 per year. The couple are looking for one year's sponsorship.

"We are absolutely desperate and are just hoping against hope that there is someone out there who will help us," said Emma.

"It's a wonderful opportunity for him and very rare that foreign students outside the EU are accepted at UK universities."

Emma will be heartbroken if things don't work out.

"I have a three-year-old son, Sam, who loves Istvan. I've been on my own for years. I couldn't bear the relationship to end," she said.

Istvan added: "It would be really bad for me. I feel happy for the first time in my life.

"I don't want to think about the relationship ending and having to leave her."

If you can help Emma and Istvan, ring Vivien Kandel on 01606 43333.

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