Ashlee Simpson and Pete WentzAshlee Simpson and Pete Wentz have confirmed that they’ve got engaged.

In a statement released on Pete’s website FriendsOrEnemies, Ashlee wrote: “We know there has been a lot of speculation recently about Pete and I and we wanted our fans to be the first to know, because you guys are the best.”

“Yes, we are thrilled to share that we are happily engaged. Thank you for all of your support and well wishes - it means the world to us. We consider this to be a very private matter, but we wanted you to hear it straight from us.”

A source close to the couple added that Pete proposed during a recent trip to Colorado: “He got down on one knee and she said yes. She has an amazing ring, and they are so in love.”

“They are ecstatic and can’t wait to be man and wife. They will be getting married before the end of the year.”

The pair’s friendship turned to romance in 2006 and have frequently spoken about how happy they are together. Engagement rumours kicked off earlier this year when Ashlee was spotted wearing a large ring but she insisted it was just a promise ring, which she explained “means that he hasn’t asked my dad yet”.

The couple’s engagement announcement now has fuelled rumours that Ashlee is pregnant with the Fall Out Boy star’s baby but spokespeople for the couple refused to comment on that issue.