February 29 serves not just to keep the calendar year synchornised by the astronomical or seasonal year but also to give ladies a chance to propose to their man (you go girl!). The tradition was said to have been initiated by St Patrick or Brigidof Kildare in 5th century Ireland. Legend also has it that there is a 1288 law established by the Queen Magaret of Scotland (who was actually 5 at the time and living in Norway) that if a man should refuse such a proposal, his penalty would be either £1, a kiss or a silk gown (in order of price of course!).

In Denmark, the penalty is 12 pairs of gloves. In Finland, the penalty is fabric for a skirt. In Greece, couples avoid the leap year day altogether as it is said to bring bad luck.
So if you’re one of those ladies waiting to get down on one knee rather than waiting for your man to get on one knee (media has suggested this is just the thing Angelina Jolie herself would do), then good luck…. and dont forget a nice watch (the equivalent of the engagement ring). and then you can debate who will buy your engagement ring!

Here are a few tips from women who have bravely pulled off a proposal (bravo!)

* Pick a proposal scenario that will be meaningful to him rather than just to you. * Pick the right moment and be calm. Hopefully, you should have already discussed the topic of marriage and your future before the suprise proposal.