Why Christine and Paddy McGuinness Don't Show Their Children's Faces

Christine, 34 and Paddy, 48, are conscious of keeping their children – twins Leo and Penelope, eight, and Felicity, six – out of the spotlight, and in her new book A Beautiful Nightmare Christine has revealed the reasons why.

She writes: "As you may know, my husband and I have never put our children’s faces in the public domain.

"It’s nothing to do with their autism. Even before they were diagnosed, we never shared photographs of them. My husband never wanted to show the kids publicly, and I do agree it’s the right thing.

"I’m not saying I’m keeping them out of the limelight forever. If the children would like social media when they’re older, then that’s up to them.

"But while they haven’t got a say, we’ve chosen to protect them in the best way we know how."

Christine has recently opened up on her own diagnosis with autism, explaining that she hopes it will make it easier when her and Paddy explain to the children about the condition.

She said on Loose Women: "So when we do discuss it with them, at least now I can say 'You’re just a bit like mummy. It’s not going to hold you back. Mummy’s working. Mummy’s married. Mummy has a family. You are capable of all these things'."

Earlier today (Friday 22 July) Christine took to social media to announce that she and her husband Paddy have officially separated after 15 years together.

Following a family holiday with their children, Christine announced the news to fans.

Taking to her Instagram Story, the TV personality began: "We hadn't planned on sharing this publicly until we were ready but after the lack of privacy surrounding our personal life, we feel with no other option but to clarify."

Christine continued: "A while ago we took the difficult decision to separate but our main focus as always is to continue loving and supporting out children. This was not an easy decision to make but we're moving forward as the best parents we can be for our three beautiful children. We'll always be a loving family, we still have a great relationship and still live happily in our family home together.

"We hope this now draws a line under anymore unwanted and unnecessary intrusion into our private life. Although we work in the public eye we ask kindly if you could respect our wishes for privacy on this matter. We'll be making no further comment."