Scarlette Douglas has hit back at critics who blasted her response to Jonnie Irwin's cancer diagnosis.
The A Place in the Sun presenter was shocked to discover her co-host had been diagnosed with terminal cancer. Scarlette was competing on I'm A Celebrity at the time Jonnie revealed his terminal diagnosis.
Scarlette appeared on today's edition of Lorraine and admitted it was "hard" to hear the devastating news when she exited the jungle. The Scottish presenter quizzed Scarlette on people who criticised her for not issuing a public message of support.
READ MORE: Rylan Clark praised for honest admission on ITV's This Morning
She said: "This world now, everything is based on social media. For me what's more important was to message him directly and let him know that I'm thinking of him and if there's anything you need, I'm here.
"I don't have to tweet about it and put an Instagram about it. It's personal and more private. For me, that was the best way to deal with it."
Lorraine agreed as she added: "He's your friend. He's going through a bad time and he knows that you're there if he needs to talk to you."
Jonnie has kept followers updated with his health since he shared his diagnosis last month. This weekend, he visited the Lake District but admitted to having a difficult night.
Posting several pictures of the countryside, Jonnie said: "After a torrid night in pain I dosed up on PK’s [painkillers] and was able to enjoy the beautiful Lakes via E-mtb [electric mountain bike]. I’ll probably pay for it later but grateful for the window, the company and the weather.
"Only my second time hired one machines but I’m hooked! #thelakes."
Receive newsletters with the biggest and breaking TV and showbiz news by signing up here
For more celeb news, videos and pictures follow our designated Facebook page HERE
Full list of 30 freebies and discounts for DWP Universal Credit claimants
Christine McGuinness addresses weight loss after slew of messages from fans
I'm a Celebrity's Boy George to receive even bigger paycheque than expected from show
Martin Lewis issues urgent message to households earning less than £40,000
Santander, HSBC, Nationwide, Lloyds Bank and TSB warning to bank account holders
