Ruth Langsford shared 'fantastic news' on air as she stepped in for Lorraine Kelly on Friday's ITV daytime programme. The presenter took over hosting duties after Lorraine Kelly traveled to the USA for Scotland's World Cup match against Morocco.
Birthday Surprise for Dr Hilary
During the show, Ruth spoke to Dr Hilary Jones before a segment with Coronation Street star Samia Longchambon. After discussing the importance of wearing deodorant in the heatwave, Ruth surprised Dr Hilary with a birthday cake.
Ruth began: 'Other fantastic news, it's somebody not a million miles from here, has a birthday today.' As birthday music played, Dr Hilary joked: 'Oh really?' Ruth continued: 'Dr Hilary, we couldn't let you go without a very unhealthy cake... but you know what, it's your birthday! Enjoy, happy birthday!'
Dr Hilary's Future on Lorraine
Dr Hilary's appearance comes months after he revealed he was stepping back from the show amid ITV cuts. Speaking at the Best Hero Awards last year, he said: 'I'm still working there until December 31, and then I'm a free agent.' He added that 'it's liberating from the constraints of a news programme presenter' but confirmed he will 'probably come back as a guest presenter now and then.'
ITV has undergone several shake-ups, with Lorraine's previous one-hour slot now cut to just half an hour, running for 30 weeks of the year.
