A WOMAN who launched a dating app for widows and widowers is taking the platform to America, Canada and Australia after achieving success across the UK.

Nicky and Andy Wake met in 2002 on DatingDirect.com and clicked instantly with each other - marrying two years later in Jamaica in 2004.

Their son Finn was born in 2007.

Nicky and Andy Wake with their son FinnNicky and Andy Wake with their son Finn (Image: SWNS)

But tragically, Nicky lost Andy aged 57 in April 2020 to Covid after he was put into a care home in 2017 following a catastrophic brain injury.

Nicky, who grew up in Runcorn, tried dating again six months after becoming a widow, but said it was like the "Wild West" and that it was hard for people to understand what she was going through.

She launched her dating app Chapter2 in November 2022 with thousands soon signing up.

The phrase "Chapter 2" is used extensively within the widow community. It describes friendship, companionship, dating or physical comfort.

The app provides a safe space for widows, to help them move forward with love and friendships.

Eighteen months after launching in the UK, Chapter2 has been behind numerous success stories, including friendships and an engagement, with Nicky excited to now bring people together further afield.

The app launched in America and Australia on Thursday, July 4 and will be rolled out in Canada on Monday, July 8.

Nicky, who lives in Bury, said: “I’m so excited to bring Chapter2 to both the states, Canada and Australia, and help widows and widowers rebuild their confidence by making friends and romantic connections.

"There is nothing better than seeing people move forward and join our supportive community.

"I’ve already had a few messages from people in the US excited to join!”

Nicky also hosts Chapter2 events up and down the country and plans to organise similar events in America and Austalia.

To celebrate the launch, free premium access to the app will be available in all three territories until early next year.