ITV issues statement after Holly Willoughby quits This Morning

This Morning has issued a statement after host Holly Willoughby announced she would be stepping down from the show after 14 years.

Speaking about Willoughby's decision to leave after more than a decade, ITV’s managing director, media and entertainment, Kevin Lygo said: "We are sad that Holly is leaving This Morning, but respect her decision which we know will have been extremely difficult for her to make.

"Holly is one of the best loved, respected and most accomplished broadcasters in the UK. She has been at the heart of This Morning for the past 14 years, and she is adored by our viewers.

"Holly has brought her unique brand of warmth, energy, humour and fun to one of the country’s most popular daytime shows, and everyone on the programme will miss her enormously.

ITV

"She remains a much loved member of the ITV family and we look forward to continuing to work with her in the future."

Willoughby joined the long-running daytime TV show as Phillip Schofield's co-host in 2009.

Earlier today, Willoughby shared a ‘difficult goodbye’ after spending 14 years fronting the show.

In a post on Instagram, she said: "I've let ITV know today that after 14 years, I will not be returning to This Morning.

"To everyone who has ever worked on the show over the years, thank you so so much. This is such a difficult goodbye, you are incredible and I forever will be proud of what we've done together. Thank you to everyone at ITV for being supportive. To every guest who has sat on our sofa, thank you.

"Most of all, thank you to the wonderful viewers. You've been so loyal, so supportive and the very best company every day.

"Richard and Judy said 'we only look after this show, it will always belong to the views'. It's been an honour to just be part of it's story and I know this story has many chapters left to go. Sadly, however, I now feel I have to make this decision for me and my family.

"I will miss you all so much. Holly"