Amanda takes Alesha 'under her wing'

Following reports that Alesha Dixon has split from partner Azuka Ononye, the singer has turned to BGT co-star Amanda Holden for support

- Eve Macdonald

After nearly two decades together, Britain's Got Talent judge Alesha Dixon has reportedly called it quits with her long-term partner, choreographer Azuka Ononye, a friend told The Sun last week. Now, as the mum-of-two navigates the next chapter of her life, it looks like her nearest and dearest are rallying around her in particular, her BGT co-host and good friend, Amanda Holden.

Although she never officially marrried Azuka, Alesha often referred to him as her "husband", and the rumour mill went into overdrive when it was alleged that she had called time on their union. Reportedly, the TV star shared with her inner circle that her romance with the dancer had fizzled out and they had decided to go their separate ways.

For Alesha, 46, newly single and dealing with the aftermath of a split, Amanda will surely be there to support her, if needed.

Amanda and Alesha's friendship blossomed when they met on Britain's Got Talent, and their relationship has gone from strength to strength over the years. Alesha has even admitted that if Amanda, 53, was to leave the show, she "might not still be sitting here five or six years later" - dubbing their close friendship as the "secret ingredient".

According to a source, it's their shared understanding of what it takes to be in this industry that has cemented their friendship. Amanda also has experience of a relationship breaking down in public after her first marriage to Les Dennis was rocked by an affair and ended in divorce - so she is likely to understand what Alesha is going through.

During the years Alesha and Azuka, 43, were together, Alesha - who was previously married to rapper MC Harvey from So Solid Crew became a household name.