The singer proposed to long-term girlfriend Ayda Field live on air… but was it a joke?

Robbie Williams left us thoroughly confused after proposing to his girlfriend live on a Sydney radio station before greeting the media maelstrom that followed with the news that he was only joking.

Robbie's girlfriend, Ayda was in the studio with him for the "Kyle and Jackie O" show to promote his new album "Reality Killed the Video Star."

Presenter Jackie Henderson was telling him that Sydney has a bit of a reputation for proposals with celebrities, at which point Williams turned to Field and said: "Is there anyone you want to get married to?"

She replied: "This is so awkward."

To which Williams said: "Will you marry me?"

After a pause, Field answered: "Yes, I'll marry you."

Was it a joke?
But Robbie's spokesman says the proposal was actually a joke. When asked whether Robbie was serious, his spokesman said: "He did say it, but in a jocular manner. They are not engaged."

If that's not confusing enough, Robbie's mother, Jan Williams said that her son had revealed his proposal plans to her a week ago. She added, "I'm very excited. I'm really pleased. They've been together for nearly three years, so it's about time. She's a great mate, as well as a lover. She's got all the qualities that he needs in a girl. It's a lovely match."

Asked when she thought the wedding would be, Mrs Williams said: "I don't think it will be that far in the not-too-distant future, but that's all I'm going to say on that."

What do you think? Will the couple walk down the aisle soon?