Real reason 'hurt' Ruth Langsford ended marriage with Eamonn Holmes after discovery

Ruth Langsford, the star of Loose Women, was left "hurt" after making an upsetting discovery following her split with Eamonn Holmes, according to close friends.

The announcement of their separation last month took their fans by surprise as Ruth and Eamonn had been happily married for 14 years. However, sources close to the presenter have confirmed there is no chance of reconciliation.

Eamonn has resumed his work at GB News, whereas Ruth has decided to take an extensive break from her ITV presenting commitments.

Struggling with the recent events, Ruth will be staying away from work for the rest of the month, according to reports. The broadcaster was deeply hurt after learning about another woman who had reportedly been comforting her husband during this time.

Sources say that Ruth was stunned when she discovered that Eamonn has been regularly meeting a lady in her forties. Over the past few years, the pair struck up a friendship, reports the Mirror.

Friends suggest that Eamonn became very attached to the woman over the course of last year.

According to one of Ruth's friends: "Ruth was hurt when she learned about Eamonn's friendship with another woman but she is strong and she will be back soon with a smile on her face, putting her best foot forward, as she always does. She needs a bit of time to regroup after everything that's gone on, which is understandable, but she plans to return to Loose Women, with renewed vigour, in July."

A friend has ruled out any chance of a reunion, stating emphatically: "No chance whatsoever."

It is understood that Eamonn and the woman in question connected via social media, linked by their association with a mental health charity. The woman reportedly volunteers for an organisation that Eamonn got involved with after the tragic passing of Ruth's sister, Julia Johnson, who battled depression.

Ruth is reportedly reeling from insinuations that she ended her marriage to Eamonn Holmes due to his health struggles. The veteran presenter, who shares son Jack, aged 22, with his estranged wife, has had his share of health setbacks, including back surgery and a broken shoulder from a fall at their Surrey home.

Friends close to Ruth are keen to dispel any rumours that she abandoned Eamonn during his time of need. "The thing that deeply upsets and frustrates her is the notion that she's ditching him because of his ongoing health issues," one confidant revealed.

"That is not true. She's always been there for him. But she has struggled with the knowledge that he's not always been honest with her."

Ruth's representative has confirmed her absence from Loose Women, explaining: "Ruth had holiday time booked from Loose Women and has extended her leave. She's looking forward to returning to the show in due course."

Meanwhile, Eamonn returned to his presenting duties just days after the couple's separation was made public. Addressing his audience on his morning show, he remarked: "So here we are on this Tuesday morning and a lot of politics."

"Just before we move on I would just like to thank people for your support for Ruth and I over the last few days as to the news of our separation. Your support for both of us is very much appreciated."

Ruth has been updating her followers on social media during her time away from Loose Women. Last month, the couple released a joint statement confirming: "Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes have confirmed their marriage is over and they are in the process of divorcing."

Eamonn has reportedly moved out of the family home.