Ant McPartlin Says He 'Can't Accept' NTA In Emotional Speech To Declan Donnelly

Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly were named as 'Best Presenters' for the 18th year in a row during last night's National Television Awards.

As the pair scooped the prestigious TV award for another year running, the cameras swooped over to the Geordie presenters on the stage in front of a huge live audience at the Britain's Got Talent auditions.

Ant was overcome by emotion as the award was anounced, telling viewers that he didn't feel he could accept the NTA this time.

It's been a tough year for both of the presenters after Ant stepped back from all of his television duties following a drink-drive charge last year. Dec was left to fly the flag solo, finishing off Saturday Night Takeaway on his own and being joined by Holly Willoughby for the latest series of I'm A Celebrity.

Despite it probably coming as no surprise to viewers watching at home, Ant said that the latest award was a "genuine shock".

"Oh wow, oh wow. Thank you, thank you very much. This is a genuine shock, especially this year. I'm shaking here. I want to say thank you to everybody," said Ant, making reference to his charge and recent stint in rehab.

He continued: "I really don't feel like I can accept this award this year - it has to go to this guy [pointing to Dec] for his hard work, dedication, wit and funniness and for being the best mate out there - I love you, man."

Dec also thanked everyone who had voted for them, adding: "Thank you to everybody for their kind and thoughtful messages, they've kept us going over the last year - this year probably more than ever."

Ant returned back to work at the end of last week, joining Dec for the BGT auditions.

PA Images

I'm A Celebrity scooped the prestigious Bruce Forsyth Award last night, with Holly Willoughby accepting the prize on their behalf.

"I spoke to [Ant and Dec] earlier tonight and they told me to say thank you to everyone for voting, it's something very close to their heart," she explained. "I managed to jump into one of my favourite TV shows."

Topics: TV Entertainment, Celebrity Entertainment

Rachel Andrews

Rachel Andrews is an NCTJ trained Journalist at PRETTY52. She specialises in Fashion and Beauty Journalism, and has experience at a range of online and print publications and joined the team in 2017. Contact her - [email protected]

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