The story of how Valentine's day began is one of romance, it began in 270 AD under the ruling of Claudius II, Claudius saw marriage as a sign of weakness he believed that his soldiers would become distracted if they were to be married.

Bishop Valentine did not agree with this and would perform secret wedding ceremonies so the men could marry their loved ones, when Claudius found out about what Valentine was doing he arrested him and he was thrown in jail.

The Bishop fell in love with the guards daughter and he would send her love letters, simply signed with Valentine at the bottom.

Unfortunately Bishop Valentine died on 14th February and this is why we celebrate his passion for love on this day.

It became a holiday in 1537 by King Henry VII

During the Medieval times the girls would eat unusual foods on Valentines Day it was believed that it made them have dreams about their future husband.

You can see the oldest documented Valentines day card on display in the British Museum in London, it dates back to the 1400's.

Over 1 billion Valentines day cards are sent worldwide every year.