‘ I'd love to see Dermot in his trunks'

Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary on the chemistry that makes their This Morning double act work

- JENNIFER RODGER

The magic of morning television has happened once again with the pairing of Dermot O’Leary and Alison Hammond on This Morning.

“I’ve found a sister and a friend,” says Dermot about sharing the sofa with Alison, speaking as the pair return to the programme to cover Holly and Phil’s half-term breaks.

The pair are as sweet off-screen as on, revealing how after the show they lunch together and WhatsApp a lot.

Here Alison and Dermot talk about their sons – Alison has teenager Aiden while Dermot’s Kasper was born in 2020 – as well as their preshow rituals, avoiding wardrobe malfunctions, winning awards and Alison’s desire to see Dermot in his trunks…

Are you both looking forward to a week of presenting This Morning together?

Alison: The last time we did it, I really enjoyed the intenseness of it. I’m hoping to have a couple of meals out, some lunches with him as well.

Dermot: “Intenseness” is the perfect word to describe it, but it’s a pleasant intenseness. I like coming in every day for a week and getting into the swing of it – and of course, seeing Alison.

Alison: Thanks, babes.

Do you get tired because you’re not used to doing the show five days in a row?

Dermot: Not when you’ve got a 15-month-old at home – he’s the alarm clock, although he has been very good recently.

Alison: No, I’m buzzing for it.

Dermot: Because you get to take random things home like that salt and vinegar spray a few weeks ago.

Alison: That’s true.