Holly Willoughby quits This Morning after 'kidnap' plot - live updates

This Morning star Holly Willoughby has announced she has quit the show.

In a statement shared on Instagram, Holly wrote: "I have let ITV know today that after 14 years, I will not be returning to This Morning. To everyone who has ever worked on the show over the years, thank you so so much. This such a difficult goodbye, you are incredible and I forever will be proud of what we've done together."

It comes after a man was charged over an alleged plot to kidnap and murder the TV star. Gavin Plumb, 36, has been remanded in custody after being charged with soliciting a man named David Nelson to commit murder, and incitement to commit kidnap between October 2 and 5 in Harlow, Essex.

The charges indicate the defendant is accused of planning to assemble a “kidnap and restraint kit” and encouraging a third party to travel to the UK to carry out the alleged offences.

Bosses at the ITV show were alerted to the alleged plot on Thursday morning (October 5) and the presenter decided to pull out shortly before she was due to go on air, the Sun newspaper reported. ITV were understood to be providing round-the-clock security and support for the star, alongside the police.

Follow below for live updates and reaction on Holly's departure from This Morning

Of the more than 4,300 people who have commented on Holly's Instagram announcement, there are several well-known celebrities and This Morning regulars wishing the presenter well with her future.

Carol Vorderman: "Wishing you and your family peace and strength in what must be a very difficult time after the news of last week Holly x from my time on TM, I know that the team will miss you very much. Take care."

Dr Amir Khan: "I imagine that this was such an incredibly difficult decision.