Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield have wished their good friend Ant McPartlin well as he battles his substance abuse problems.

Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby

Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby

The 42-year-old TV star has shelved plans to co-host 'Saturday Night Takeaway' alongside Dec Donnelly this weekend after being arrested on suspicion of drink driving on Sunday (18.03.18), and the 'This Morning' presenters have voiced their support for their showbiz pal.

Opening the show, Phillip said: "Let's start with the events at the weekend. This is difficult for us, we're talking about a friend here.

"Like many people we are shocked and saddened by Sunday's incident involving Ant."

Ant was arrested after he was involved in a minor car crash in London.

And Holly revealed that the ongoing investigation means the presenting duo are restricted in what they're able to say.

She explained: "We can't say much more because the matter is still being investigated by the police.

"But we want to wish those shaken and upset by the collision a quick recovery and personally for Ant we hope he gets some time and space to return to full health."

Phillip continued: "Ant has now gone back into treatment, he's clearly struggling; he loves Dec, he loves his career, he loves the shows that they make together and he loves their fans."

Despite this, Phillip insisted Ant should be held to the same standards as everyone else.

He also extended his best wishes to the other parties involved in the collision.

Phillip explained: "The overwhelming feeling, we believe, has to be that no matter who you are, no matter what you do, if you get into a car having had a drink the responsibility is entirely yours.

"We wish Ant and all those involved in those sad events all the very best."

Following the incident, Ant announced he was taking time off "for the foreseeable future" and would have further treatment to combat his issues.

It has also been confirmed that 'Saturday Night Takeaway' will not air this weekend, while the final two episodes of the current series, which are scheduled to air on March 31 and April 7, won't feature Ant.

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