Bangladesh-born Ahmed was fired in the 10th episode of the show

The couple met on the most recent series of the hit BBC Two show and they are now expecting a child.

"I'm trying to protect her," the 31-year-old told GMTV. "At first we tried to keep it as private as possible, but it's impossible."

He urged people not to "believe everything you read".

"That is the bit you don't factor in, tabloids, and every week it's a different story."

He said: "We are together and these are exciting times, but at the same time I think Michelle is having quite a complex pregnancy."

Dewberry, 26, won The Apprentice in May, beating rival Ruth Badger in the final.

She took a �100,000-a-year job as head of Xenon Green, a company set up by businessman Sir Alan Sugar to dispose of unwanted computer equipment.

Winner Dewberry (right) was hired by Sir Alan Sugar

Earlier this month Ahmed was bailed by police after being arrested for offences in relation to money-laundering.

He was also recently given a suspended jail sentence after being caught drink-driving for the fourth time. Magistrates ordered him to attend alcohol counselling.