Phillip Schofield escapes to Cornwall to see his mum before issuing ITV This Morning statement

Phillip Schofield reportedly headed to Cornwall to visit his mum after deciding to step away from ITV's This Morning.

The 61-year-old presenter announced his decision to walk away from the hit daytime programme on Saturday afternoon after days of speculation around the future of the show and reports of a 'rift' growing between him and his co-host Holly Willoughby.

Phil, who has hosted the show for more than 20 years, released a statement, in which he said that "ITV has decided the current situation can’t go on". The Mirror reports that the presenter headed away from London to the sunny seaside county to visit his mum Pat, 85, after presenting his last show, which aired on Thursday.

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He reportedly made the 300-mile trip to the seaside to spend Friday chatting to his beloved mum on a coastal path walk, where the pair were seen chatting.

Phil shared the news with his fans on Instagram, posting on Saturday afternoon: “I have always been proud to cover fascinating stories on This Morning. But recently, This Morning itself has become the story.

“Throughout my career in TV – including the very difficult last few days – I have always done my best to be honourable and kind. I understand that ITV has decided the current situation can’t go on, and I want to do what I can to protect the show that I love.

“So I have agreed to step down from This Morning with immediate effect, in the hope that the show can move forward to a bright future. I’d like to thank everyone who has supported me – especially This Morning’s amazing viewers – and I’ll see you all for the Soap Awards next month.”

ITV has said Holly will remain on the show and will “co-present with members