Tess Daly and Vernon Kay have announced their separation after building a strong marriage.

Background

Vernon Kay praised wife Tess Daly's independence when they first met, as it has emerged that the once-solid couple were living separate lives before their split.

Meeting and Marriage

They dated after meeting in 2001 and started getting married the next year.

Separation Announcement

The separation announcement came on Friday, with the couple expressing mutual understanding and a shared desire for what's best for both of them.

Their two daughters, Phoebe, 21, and Amber, 16, were completely involved in the conversations.

Public Appearances

The pair were last seen publicly together in February of this year and are food ambassadors for Marks and Spencer.

Friends of the couple were stunned to learn of the news.