Holly Willoughby has quit This Morning

Holly Willoughby has quit This Morning.

The ITV star released a statement on the matter to Instagram today (10 October).

It begins: "I have let ITV know today that after 14 years, I will not be returning to This Morning."

ITV

"To everyone who has ever worked on the show over the years, thank you so so much," she continued. "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 viewers'."

Holly, 42, went on: "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."

And fellow members from the This Morning family have since rushed in to share their reactions to the news, with Alison Hammond commenting: "This is a very sad day ! Love you."

Instagram/@hollywilloughby

Juliet Sear penned: "So sad to see you go Holly wishing you loads of positive things for your new chapter xxx it’s been wonderful working with you for the last 8 years and making your birthday cakes to for the last 14.

"Lots of love to you and you family xxx."

Donal Skehan offered: "Always the most lovely host each and every time I was on with you - thank you for being so sweet over the years and onwards and upwards! Sending lots of love D xx."

The bombshell announcement comes after it was revealed that Holly was set to go on 'indefinite leave' from This Morning after learning about an alleged plot to kidnap her.

The mum-of-three is said to be 'distraught' by the sinister plot and has since been put under surveillance by police to keep her and her family safe.

Officers were stationed outside her London home, which she shares with her three children and husband Dan Baldwin.

Essex Police has confirmed that a man has been arrested in connection with the incident.