Joey Essex has already moved on from Maura Higgins after being struck by the Dancing on Ice curse

EX-TOWIE star Joey Essex appears to have moved on from Love Island’s Maura Higgins — by growing close to his Dancing on Ice partner Vanessa Bauer.

Insiders say Joey, 32, and Vanessa, 26, have been flirting throughout their time rehearsing for the ITV ice-skating series.

And Joey is said to be planning to invite the German pro-skater to Essex to show her his £3million mansion.

A source said: “Joey and Vanessa have grown close incredibly quickly.

“Right now they have managed to keep everything professional but it’s safe to say they are both super flirty.

“They are going to spend a lot of time together over the next few months due to rehearsals so it’s easy to see how romance could blossom.

“Joey is hoping to invite her to Essex for a night out with his mates and drinks at his.”

It comes after Joey was seen smooching with Maura, 31, at a booze-fuelled awards bash in London last week.

They headed home together in a taxi.

Pals insisted they did not hook up but they were said to be “excitedly planning their first date”

And an insider had said: “There is a real connection there.

“They both fancy the pants off each other — it could be the start of something pretty special.”