Ashley Banjo fans spot sign of split from wife as they announce 18 month separation

2022-12-23

Following last night's shock news that Diversity frontman Ashley Banjo and now-ex Francesca called time on their long-term relationship 18 months ago, many eagle-eyed fans now believe they've spotted past signs that the pair had secretly split.

One hint discovered by Ashley's followers was that the dancing guru, 33, who shares children Rose and Micah with Francesca, chose not to take Francesca with him to collect his MBE in October, going with his mum instead.

In a post celebrating his achievements, when thanking his loved ones, he notably left out any mention of his partner – instead writing: "So I went to Windsor Castle with my mum to pick up something a little bit special today…

"Humbled, greatful and feeling hopeful for the future. Thanks again to everyone that has supported me, my team and my family over the years. Onwards and upwards. Ashley Banjo MBE."

And Francesca left a rather platonic comment on the sweet snap of Ashley and his mother from the big day, writing: "So proud of you dude… what a day xx".

But despite their apparently past decision to part ways, if one looked to either of the couple's social media platform, it is clear that they still support each other, the last time Ashley shared a picture of Francesca being on Mother's Day in March.

Posting a heart-warming carousel of pictures which started with his own mum, as well as two of Francesca with their kids, he wrote: "Happy Mother’s Day @daniellebanjo42231 and @francescabanjo… Both of you are the best ever.

"After Rose and Micah I have a new found respect for my mum completely and as for Chess… I literally don’t know how she does it on a daily basis. Love and appreciate you both more than you."

Francesca posted three red love hearts in the comment section of the sweet post.

And when it comes to the last photo Ashley posted alongside who was believed at the time to be his wife, it was in January.

In a gorgeous post of the pair cuddling their two young children and focussing on the importance of spending time with them, Ashley – tagging Francesca – wrote: "You are a super woman to look after those kids like you do."

The last time Francesca posted a snap of Ashley was 4 October this year, wishing him a happy birthday and sharing a photo of the pair with their children, as well as a shot of just her then-husband with the kids.

She wrote: "Happy Birthday @ashleybanjogram… We love you more than we could ever say in a caption… Everything you do, everything you give, and how tirelessly you work for us… Happy Birthday. We love you so much xxxx".

Just a handful of weeks later, Francesca shared photos of Micah and Rose in their spooky outfits on Halloween night, with Ashley noticeably missing.

The Dancing on Ice judge and Francesca, also a dancer, who tied the knot back in July 4, 2015 after 10 years together, released a joint statement on Instagram last night pledging that their children will be their focus.

Announcing the news, the ex-couple said: "After much thought and consideration we both feel now is the time to share some personal news.

"Nearly 18 months ago we took the difficult decision to separate. After being together for over 16 years, since we were teenagers, this is not a decision that has been taken lightly.

"It has not been easy and the processing of the situation has not been fast by any means. But we feel that as we approach the new year it is time to share this news with others.

"Our main focus will always be our beautiful children. Every decision that has been made is to make sure we can continue as a loving family and give the very best of ourselves as parents."

The pair, who began dating when they were teenagers, explained that they had moved in "different directions" as the lengthy statement went on: "Sometimes after so many years people just move in different directions, but we do so lovingly and we continue to try and be both the best parents possible and the best of friends to each other.

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