Vernon clears up sexting rumours

Vernon and Rhian’s romantic liaison was outed back in 2010 but Tess vowed to put the trouble behind her and the married couple have appeared stronger than ever.

But this week it has emerged that Vernon had sent messages trying to meet up with Rhian at a hotel, although the ex-St John Rigby College student insisted his wife knew about it and it was innocent.

He wrote on Facebook: “I was contacted by Rhian out of the blue back in December regarding the story in 2010 claiming she had information she wanted to pass on. I recognise how it may look when messages are pulled out of context but there was never any inappropriate intent to our communication, I was merely trying to find answers to questions that I’ve had since 2010. Tess is aware of everything that has been discussed with Rhian.”

Vernon, 41, pulled out of presenting the One Show this week, to be by his wife’s side. However, he appeared on radio station X to fill in for Chris Moyles, but didn’t mention the recent controversy.

Rhian, who is engaged to former Coronation Street actor Oliver Mellor, posted a cryptic Tweet, with a picture of the Disney character Pinocchio, with the message: “A liar should have a good memory. #TwoSides.” She deleted the tweet hours later.

It is not known if the 29-year-old was referring to Vernon, but her tweet came after he posted a message on Facebook claiming she had got back in touch with him in December with ‘information to pass on’ about their 2010 scandal.

Meanwhile, Vernon is gearing up for his new ITV show - Drive - on April 5, from 9pm, which involves celebrities doing driving challenges. He said: “Everyone thinks they can drive - but can they? This show will test not only their skills behind the wheel but also how they control their fear. Drive is not just about straight line speed, all driving skills are going to be tested. But when it’s not your clutch you’re burning or your tyres you’re shredding, it’s full steam ahead!”