'It's important to have excitement in life'

Vanessa Feltz on dating again and the healing powers of grandchildren

- EVE MACDONALD

Vanessa Feltz was left heartbroken when she split from Ben Ofoedu, her partner of 17 years, and now seven months on the presenter admits she still feels “lonely”.

She ended the relationship after discovering he had been unfaithful to her, leaving her unable to trust him.

Now, in a candid interview with new, the 61-year-old presenter says it’s her family, including daughters Saskia and Allegra and her grandchildren Zeke, Neroli, Amiel (AJ) and Cecily who have kept her going and given her the courage to go on her first date in over two decades.

It’s no secret that it’s been a tough year for you, Vanessa. Has your family been the ultimate support system?

Definitely. It’s impossible to be heartbroken when you’re holding a beautiful baby. Those pheromones just transfer straight into you, especially if you’re feeling desolate, lonely, heartbroken, sad, betrayed, all that horrible stuff, which I definitely have felt and still feel actually. Cuddling a baby is one of the most wonderful things that you can do. Plus, you have to put a “good” face on because you don’t want to be sad or crying around children. This year I’ve found both my grandchildren and children to be my tower of strength and also the best distraction from it all.

How have you been keeping yourself busy?