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Zoe Ball speaks out on coping with grief after boyfriend Billy Yates’ tragic death

Presenter has thanked fans for their advice and commfort

Presenter Zoe Ball was left devastated after her boyfriend Billy Yates, 40, was found dead at his home earlier this month.

Billy took his life following a battle with mental health issues.

Now Zoe, 46, has spoken about how she’s dealing with grief since his tragic death.

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One fan wrote to the star on Instagram saying: “You’re in my thoughts Zoe, take your time, be kind to yourself and remember that there’s no right or wrong way to do this, do what feels right.”

Zoe replied: “Your message has made me cry but happy tears. It is such a comfort to know it will get better.

“I feel blessed that my Friends and family and Billys friends and family are staying close. We will help each other through. Thank you for taking time to share. Truly means so much.”

This comes shortly after Zoe shared a touching tribute to Billy on her Instagram.

Alongside a photo of Billy smiling on holiday Zoe wrote: “Goodnight my beautiful Boy. I’ll be loving you always.”

Fans rushed to give their support as one said: “So deeply sorry for your loss.”

“My heart breaks for you. Take your time to grieve. Sending you thoughts and prayers,” another added.

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Zoe’s 16-year-old son Woody Cook recently vowed to “look after” his mum in a beautiful tribute to Billy.

He wrote: “I’m sorry we spent so little time together. No one deserves to feel what you felt. I’ll look after her. ❤️,” with a photo of a pebbly beach, and family of crabs with the words “Billy Yates 1976-2017” above it.

A proud Zoe commented on the snap saying: “Woo my best boy. You make me the proudest mama ever. You blow my mind with your love.”

The Strictly star is currently taking a break from work commitments and has pulled out of filming the final of her BBC baking show following her heartbreaking loss.

A source told The Sun: “Everyone understands Zoe’s predicament and there’s real sympathy for her. But her absence in the final is a blow for the debut series.”

The final episode is set to carry on without the star as she continues to grieve for her partner.

The BBC2 show, which will show 16 families cook their best recipes, is due to air in the autumn.


Rebecca Carter
Associate Editor (News)

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