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Ant McPartlin arrest 'is difficult for us': Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield break silence over 'drink-driving' crash following criticism

Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield said they were "shocked and saddened" by news of Ant McPartlin’s ‘drink driving' arrest.

The pair addressed the incident on Tuesday’s episode of This Morning after receiving criticism for not covering the story on Monday’s show.

Speaking at the start of the programme, the presenters commented: “This is difficult for us. We're talking about a friend here. We are shocked and saddened by the events involving Ant McPartlin over the weekend.

“We want to wish those shaken by the crash all the best. Ant has now gone back into rehab.”

'Shocked': Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield addressed Ant McPartlin's 'drink-driving' crash (ITV)
'Shocked': Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield addressed Ant McPartlin's 'drink-driving' crash (ITV)

Schofield continued: “The overwhelming feeling that is no matter who you are or what you do, if you get into a car when you’ve had a drink, the responsibility is all yours.

“We wish and Ant and everyone involved in the crash all the very best.”

McPartlin was arrested on suspicion of ‘drink-driving’ on Sunday night after reportedly crashing into another car.

On Monday, ITV confirmed that Saturday Night Takeaway, which the presenter fronts with Donnelly, would not be going ahead this weekend.

A spokesperson said in a statement: “ITV has taken a joint decision with Ant and Dec’s team not to broadcast Saturday Night Takeaway this weekend," the statement read.

“We will be reviewing options for the last two episodes of the series (March 31 and April 7) which would not feature Ant who is taking time off to seek treatment.

“We very much hope that he gets the help that he needs."

Viewers were surprised that the situation wasn’t addressed on This Morning after segments on Lorraine and Good Morning Britain.

One fan of the show wrote: "Let's see if Ant gets a mention. I doubt it."

Another tweeted: "Oh #thismorning not mentioning Ant then...Thought they would lead with that as it was on #GMB news & discussed on #lorraine...

This Morning continues weekdays at 10.30am on ITV.