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Zoe Ball breaks silence following tragic death of her boyfriend

The TV and radio presenter lost her partner Billy Yates a week ago

Heartbroken Zoe Ball has sent a message to her fans after news that her boyfriend Billy Yates was found dead last Thursday.

The 40-year-old cameraman is suspected to have taken his own life.

A week on, Zoe’s management team have released a statement on behalf of the presenter to thank everybody for their kind words.

Read more: John Partridge reveals his anger as mum passes away

“On behalf of Zoe Ball, we would like to thank everyone for the kind messages and support during a very difficult time,” they said.

This is the first time that the 46-year-old has addressed the news publicly after her heartbreak.

However, she did post a photo of a flower in memory of her late boyfriend, which read: “My sweet love”.

My sweet love X

A post shared by Zoe Ball (@zeebeezoobee) on

The radio host also retweeted a few messages on Twitter aimed to help others that are suffering from mental health issues.

She also shared a post by food blogger Jack Monroe, which read: “You don’t have to ‘man up’ – the biggest killer of men under 45 is suicide. The strongest thing to do is talk. #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek.”

The couple looked to be happy, and had been photographed out and about during their four months together.

A friend of Billy also told the Mirror that he “adored” his girlfriend.

It is believed that Billy had battled mental health issues during his time of death.

A friend of his, Sophie Phelps, posted a tribute on her Instagram account, after she found out, which read: “My thoughts are with you, Zoe. Billy loved you so much and would tell me how much he adored you.

“We had such a close bond and made a pact that we would always call one another when we were in need no matter what time of day.

“He’s been there for me through some really dark times. I just wished he had called, then maybe I could have done more.

“I’m devastated. I hope he’s finally at peace and his head is at rest.

“I’ll never forget him and I’m going to beat this illness for him, it’s the very least I can do.

Read more: Stephanie Davis rushed to hospital with mystery illness

“Today is a very sad day. I’ve lost an amazing friend to a seriously cruel and unfair illness.

“I’ll be lighting up the sky with your lighter tonight wishing you were sat beside me having one of our long,
hilarious chats munching on Frazzles.

“I hope you sleep well Billy, without the nightmares now.”


Nancy Brown
Associate Editor

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