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Phillip Schofield has shared a heartfelt message with his fans after returning to This Morning for the first time in weeks.
Schofield, 61, has not been on the sofa since his brother Timothy went on trial for sexual offences involving a child last month.
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The 54-year-old was found guilty on all counts, including two of sexual activity with a child, by the jury after more than five-and-a-half hours of deliberation at Exeter Crown Court on 3 April.
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At the time of the verdict, the This Morning presenter said in a statement: “My overwhelming concern is and has always been for the wellbeing of the victim and his family. I hope that their privacy will now be respected.”
He added: “If any crime had ever been confessed to me by my brother, I would have acted immediately to protect the victim and their family. These are despicable crimes, and I welcome the guilty verdicts. As far as I am concerned, I no longer have a brother.”
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Now he has returned to the show, addressing his departure in a message to his fans.
Joined by Rochelle Humes - with usual co-host Holly Willoughby currently off sick - Schofield said: “I'd just like to say, it is really lovely to be back. I have missed the show and everyone here and also to you.
“I wanted to say thank you for your kind messages and support which were really appreciated. Thank you very much indeed.”
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He then said: “On with the show... Shall we?”
After Timothy Schofield’s guilty verdict was delivered, Detective Inspector Keith Smith said: “This defendant has exploited and abused the victim by carrying out a sickening series of offences over a significant period of time.
“Although the defendant does not work in a public-facing role, and the offences are not linked to his employment, we know the fact he works for the police will be a matter of public concern.”
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An NSPCC spokesperson also said: “Child sexual abuse can have devastating and long-lasting impact on a person’s life and Timothy Schofield’s actions were deeply harmful. We hope that the young man he targeted is receiving all the support he needs to move forward with his life.”
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence regarding the welfare of a child, contact the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000, 8am–10pm Monday to Friday, 9am–6pm weekends. If you are a child seeking advice and support, call Childline for free on 0800 1111
Featured Image Credit: ITVTopics: Phillip Schofield, Celebrity, This Morning, TV And Film