BBC Radio 2 star Vernon Kay found himself getting emotional during a heartfelt discussion with country singer Ashley McBryde after announcing his split from Tess Daly
Vernon Kay was left “welling up” on-air as singer Ashley McBryde discussed a heartfelt moment involving a young fan. It came after the Grammy-award winning country singer recalled an encounter she had with one of her idols as a youngster.
Ashley, 42, says she met songwriter Carl Jackson over three decades ago at a concert. Ashley says she introduced herself as a budding songwriter at the time.
Instead of just humouring her, she says Carl said he had a guitar, and asked if she would perform something for him. The touching moment stuck with Ashley throughout her career.
And she herself found a full-circle moment recently when she was approached by a young fan after a concert. Speaking on Radio 2, Ashley said: “And not long ago, we were leaving the Opera House, I usually leave pretty late because I stay for the whole thing, and as we were leaving, this young girl, and she’s probably eight, nine, I had noticed her during the set, she was singing every word, and now I’m leaving the building, she’s coming through on the After Hours tour, and I said, ‘Oh, you’re the girl from the front row’.
“She marched up to me and said, ‘My name is Sawyer June and I play the guitar and I’m from Oklahoma, I sing and write songs’. And the way she presented herself was just lovely and strong.
“Her mum said she really plays Bible And A .44 really well, so I said, ‘I have a guitar here, we should sit down, and you should sing this to me’, because those are the gifts I was given.”
As she recounted the story, Vernon interjected: “Why am I welling up here? That’s so cool because you’ve installed, automatically, belief in that child.”
Last week dad-of-two Vernon addressed his shock split from former Strictly Come Dancing presenter Tess Daly. The pair shared a joint announcement on Friday confirming the end of their 22-year relationship.
During a chat with Radio 2 co-star Gary Davies on Monday, Vernon said: “I just want to say on behalf of myself and Tess, thank you, thank you, for all your well wishes, it’s been greatly, greatly, appreciated.”
Vernon and Tess met in 2001 when they were both rising stars in the world of television. A year later, Vernon proposed to Tess on Christmas Day at her parents’ home and they married the following September in his hometown, at St Mary’s Catholic Church near Bolton.
But in an Instagram statement on Friday, the pair wrote: “After much consideration, and with a deep sense of care and respect for one another, we have made the decision to separate amicably.
“This has not been an easy choice, but it comes from a place of mutual understanding and a shared desire for what is best for both of us. We remain great friends and most importantly, fully committed to our roles as loving and supportive parents, which will always be our priority.
“There are no other parties involved in this decision. We kindly ask for privacy during this time as we navigate this transition together. We will not be making any further public comments. Tess and Vernon.”
Back in December, Vernon struggled to hold back emotions as he paid tribute to Tess ahead of her final Strictly Come Dancing. He said: “I’ve got to say this, it’s Tess’ last Strictly on Saturday.
He continued: “She has been at the helm of that show with Bruce [Forsyth] and Claudia and it’s been nothing but ruckus fun. It’s been the favourite show of the nation’s since it started and it’s seen our two kids arrive through the show as well.”
As part of his heartfelt tribute, he added: “And I’ve just got to say, congratulations Tess on an amazing run. It does feel like we’ve lost a friend but what she’s achieved on that show is exceptional.”
Earlier this week reports emerged suggesting that Emma Willis will take over as one of the Strictly presenters. This however is yet to be confirmed by the BBC.
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