Kate Winslet's new boyfriend says he is very "happy" with her.

Model Louis Dowler - who began dating the Oscar-winning actress in June following her split from estranged husband Sam Mendes earlier this year - has spoken for the first time about their romance and couldn't contain his excitement.

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Speaking at the Virgin Media V Festival, in Chelmsford, Essex, earlier this month, Louis told Grazia magazine: "I feel really happy at the moment, although Kate's not coming today, unfortunately. So I'm here with friends having a relaxing day out. Kate's in Reading visiting family this weekend but I'm going to meet up with her on Sunday or Monday, which will be great."

The 'Reader' star is thought to have invited Louis to meet her parents in her hometown but the hunk had already made plans with friends to go to the festival.

Sources close to Kate - who has nine-year-old daughter Mia with first husband Jim Threapleton and seven-year-old Joe with Sam -- say the pair are smitten with each other.

A friend said: "We all thought it was just going to be a fling, but it's been going on a couple of months now and they seem to be getting closer and closer. Louis is making Kate really happy, he is just the kind of guy you want around if you've been going through a tough time, as he really looks out for the people he cares for."