Vernon Kay has shared an awkward memory from his first date with Tess Daly, just hours after the couple announced their amicable split after 22 years together. The Radio 2 presenter, 52, recalled how technology almost ruined his chance to impress the former Strictly Come Dancing host, 57.
First Date Disaster
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Vernon revealed that during their first date at Zilli Fish in London's Soho, his cash card was rejected, leaving Tess to foot the bill. 'I think we ordered a bottle of pinot grigio, but Tess doesn't like pinot grigio, so it may have been a bottle of sauvignon blanc. I have the worst memory; all I remember from that date is that my cash card was rejected, so Tess had to pay,' he said.
Vernon had previously admitted to being impressed by Tess's financial status at the time. In a Guardian interview, he quipped: 'She had a Visa card when I was still on a student solo card.'
The Split Announcement
The couple, who met at a BBC Christmas party in the early 2000s and married in 2003, announced their separation on Friday. In a joint statement, they said: 'After much consideration, and with a deep sense of care and respect for one another, we have made the decision to separate amicably.' They emphasised that there were 'no other parties involved' and that they would 'remain great friends and most importantly, fully committed to our roles as loving and supportive parents.'
Staying Classy
A source close to the couple told the Mirror that Vernon and Tess 'made a toast' to each other after releasing the statement. 'They only want the best for each other and their family. There has been no big fallout, more a gradual growing apart and wanting different things. They have vowed to stay friends and to keep things classy when it comes to the split,' the source said.
The pair are still living together in their Buckinghamshire home, though it is believed Vernon will eventually move closer to London for his Radio 2 show. They share two daughters, Phoebe and Amber.
