A Place in the Sun's Jasmine Harman on 'bittersweet' 20th anniversary after Jonnie Irwin death

With A Place in the Sun making a return for its 20th year, it's going to be a poignant moment for host Jasmine Harman as she misses her good friend and co-host of almost two decades, Jonnie Irwin.

The pair debuted their first episode on Channel 4's A Place in the Sun in February 2004 and have been close ever since. But with Jonnie's recent passing from lung cancer at age 50 on February 2 of this year, Jasmine is preparing herself for what will surely be an emotional show.

Recalling her longevity in the series, she reflects: "I am so proud to have been part of A Place in the Sun for 20 years."

Talking about how impactful the programme is she expressed: "It has been life changing for so many people and to be able to help hundreds of couples last time I counted it was 440.

"It has changed my life in so many ways, too. I met my husband (a camera-man) Jon on the programme, we've got two children, Joy, nine, and Albion, seven, now and I feel proud to be able to show people that anything is possible."

But there's a lingering sadness as she speaks about Jonnie: "But [reaching this landmark] has also been very bittersweet. I still find it very hard even talking about Jonnie. It's still very raw", reports the Mirror in their exclusive.

In awe of Jonnie's positivity the 48-year-old speaks highly of his attitude after he revealed his terminal diagnosis in 2022.

Known not only for A Place in the Sun but for BBC's Escape To The Country, Jonnie's positive outlook, support via social media, and aim to stay upbeat and joke until the end left a lasting impression on his numerous fans.

Jasmine has taken to heart Jonnie's life mantra of embracing the fullness of each day - finding her own little paradise under the sun in Estepona, Spain. She recounts: "Throughout the last 20 years, I've had countless people who had something that has been a catalyst for them, whether that is a bereavement, health scare or other trauma."

The presenter said: "It has made people think life is for living and that is a message I would like to say to everyone today. Not only from Jonnie's passing, but we have also lost other family members and other friends as well. It definitely makes you want to make the best of every day."

Relocating to Spain has simplified Jasmine's commute, letting her thrive on quality moments with her family. The mum of two shares: "We felt with the children it was now or never. If we waited until they were at secondary school age, it wouldn't be as easy. I feel lucky I am able to give my children the chance to be part of a different culture."

However, transitioning gave Jasmine - who's presently learning Spanish - hands-on insight into the legal complexities expats have to tackle, entailing a drawn-out process of sorting legal paperwork taking six months. This enlightening experience brought into focus the reasoning behind buyers' exhaustive list of specifications.

She remarks: "I actually had it with myself. When we were looking, I fell in love with a beautiful property before I saw it. But when I arrived, there was a pylon in the garden. I was devastated. [But] I don't think people should compromise."

Jasmine is keen to continue her house-hunting journey on the show she and Jonnie both adored for another 20 years. She added: "That's if they will have me of, course."

Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond. Sign up to our daily newsletter.