Zoe Ball has revealed that gardening has become a form of therapy following the death of her partner, Billy Yates, who took his own life last year. The BBC Radio 2 presenter described herself as a 'tough old cookie' but acknowledged that grief can strike unexpectedly.
Ball recently completed a 350-mile cycling challenge over five days, raising £500,000 for Sport Relief. She said the experience gave her hope, adding: 'That's the biggest thing for me, that there is hope. Otherwise what are we doing this for?'
The 47-year-old told the Radio Times that she still struggles with the loss, saying: 'I'm in the middle of this challenge and Billy's gone. That never leaves you. And the heartbreak, and the fact you couldn't save them.'
Ball's efforts will be featured in a BBC One documentary titled 'Zoe's Hardest Road Home', airing on 21 March. She hopes the film will encourage others to seek help and talk about mental health.
