Ashley Banjo’s wife Francesca hinted at secret split with cryptic post about ‘testing year’ before shock announcement
ASHLEY Banjo’s wife Francesca hinted at their secret split almost a year before they announced it.
In a post at the start of the year, Francesca referred to ‘testing’ times and it has since been revealed that the pair had ended their 16 year romance by that point.
Sharing a picture of herself with Ashley and their two kids, she wrote: “After the last week of 2021 continuing to test us, its easy to be consumed by the negative. So here is what I am thankful for .”
Last night Diversity star turned Dancing On Ice judge Ashley revealed that he and his childhood sweetheart had parted ways – a year and half ago.
Ashley, 31, got engaged to Francesca back in 2014, with the pair marrying a year later and now sharing two children.
The proud dad said the former couple’s priority would now be co-parenting their children Rose, three, and Micah, two.
In a joint statement, the pair said: “After much thought and consideration we both feel now is the time to share some personal news.
“Nearly 18 months ago we took the decision to separate.
“After being together for over 16 years, since we were teenagers, this is not a decision that has been taken lightly.
“It has not been easy and the processing of the situation has not been fast by any means. But we feel that as we approach the new year it is time to share this news with others.
“Our main focus will always be our beautiful children. Every decision that has been made is to make sure we can continue as a loving family and give the very best of ourselves as parents.
“Raising Rose and Micah in a healthy and happy environment is the most important thing to both of us.
“Sometimes after so many years people just move in different directions, but we do so lovingly and we continue to try and be both the best parents possible and the best of friends to each other.
“We have always been private with our personal lives, so we kindly ask that everyone please continue to respect that privacy.
“We won’t be making any further comment on the situation. Thank you, lots of love, Ash and Chess x”