Yahoo News Holly Willoughby speaks out as security guard found guilty of kidnap and murder plot
Holly Willoughby has spoken out after a security guard was convicted of plotting to kidnap, rape and murder her.
The former This Morning presenter commented on the conviction of Gavin Plumb, who was unanimously found guilty of soliciting murder and inciting rape and kidnap by a jury at Chelmsford Crown Court, Sky News reports.
Willoughby waived her right to automatic anonymity as an alleged victim of a planned sexual offence. She did not give evidence or attend the trial.
She issued a statement following the verdict on Thursday (July 4), saying women "should not be made to feel unsafe going about our daily lives and in our own home".
In her statement, Willoughby also thanked an undercover police officer who understood the threat posed by Plumb.
"I will forever be grateful to the undercover police officer who understood the imminent threat, and to the Metropolitan and Essex police forces for their swift response," the TV presenter continued.
"Thank you to the Crown Prosecution Service, the Rt Hon Mr Justice Murray, Alison Morgan KC, the members of the jury and all involved in this case for ensuring that justice was done and that the defendant will not be able to harm any more women."
The court heard during the trial that Plumb had previous convictions for offences against women.
In her statement, Willoughby thanked his "previous victims" for sharing their experiences following his arrest in October last year.
"I would also like to commend the bravery of his previous victims for speaking up at the time. Without their bravery this conviction may not have been possible," she said.
Prosecutors told the court that Plumb had developed an "obsession" with Willoughby lasting over a decade, BBC News reports.
The jury was told that he was arrested after he had spoken online to an undercover police officer in the US about the plot.
Plumb, who had denied the offences, is due to be sentenced on Friday, July 12.
Willoughby left This Morning last autumn after 14 years, calling the decision a "difficult goodbye" and thanking "everyone at ITV" for their support.
"To every guest who has sat on our sofa, thank you," she added at the time. "Most of all, thank you to the wonderful viewers. You've been so loyal, so supportive and the very best company every day."
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