Zoe Ball inundated with support as she announces family loss 'We are heartbroken'

BBC Radio 2 presenter Zoe Ball, 50, shared a picture of her cat Monkey on Instagram alongside a caption announcing the sad news today. The Strictly: It Takes Two host was swiftly supported by many of her 548,000 followers.

She wrote: “Our beautiful cat Monkey has gone to monkey heaven.

“He was a great adventurer, so chatty, full of love & always up for a fireside cuddle. We are heartbroken.

“Thank you to the kind people who found him & called us. Rest well you magic ginger bundle.”

Actress Caroline Quentin was one of the first to send her support to the star.

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She commented: “Monkey cat investigates first daffs, snowdrops, irises up in the garden #littlethings #springflowers #homesweethome #catsofinstagram.”(sic)

Zoe’s sad loss comes after it was revealed she had put her five-bedroom home on the market for a reported £1.1m.

The 18th century house has been listed for sale less than two years after she bought it.

The three-floor property includes a uniquely designed split-level courtyard garden, country-style kitchen and an open plan kitchen and living room.