Holly Willoughby has claimed she and her This Morning co-star, Phillip Schofield, fully adhered to the strict media rules during their visit to the lying-in-state of the Queen.
The two presenters had been slammed since footage emerged of them appearing to bypass the regular queue and waltzed straight into Westminster Hall.
Following the clip, there had been calls for the pair to step down from their role on the breakfast programme.
READ MORE: Phil and Holly’s ‘queue jumping’ backlash sparks petition to remove hosts from This Morning
During their first broadcast since the incident, Holly they were part of a list of accredited broadcasters who visited the Hall.
(Image: ITV)
She said: “We were given official permission to access the hall, it was strictly for the purpose of reporting on the event for millions of people in the UK who haven’t been able to visit Westminster in person.
“The rules were that we would be quickly escorted around the edges to a platform at the back, in contrast, those paying respects walked along a carpeted area beside the coffin and were given time to pause.
(Image: ITV)
“None of the broadcasters and journalists there took anyone’s place in the queue and no one filed past the Queen.”
She went on to add: “We, of course, respected those rules – however, we realise that it may have looked like something else.
“And therefore, totally understand the reaction.
Fans have since reacted to their response, with one saying: “Look. Shut it. You jumped in because you think you’re more important than the rest. People will see past your drivel. You’re simply odious. #ThisMorning.”
A second added: “First… and last time I’ve ever watched any of #ThisMorning. What a cowardly way out, couldn’t even do the ‘excuse’ live.”
Before a third commented: “Lol the explanation from the #queuejumpers on this #ThisMorning is truly laughable. What a pair of frauds.”
“Please note; Holly and Phil didn’t actually say sorry or apologise in any way, just a half-a***d explanation, absolutely shameful #ThisMorning,” fumed another.
(Image: ITV)
While people had been left enraged, Phillip and Holly were also supported by pal Lizzie Cundy who was urged by James Whale to tell Schofield he was a “complete and utter prat” – to which she refused.
This Morning issued a statement days later reading: “We asked Phillip and Holly to be part of a film for this Tuesday’s programme.
“They did not jump the queue, have VIP access or file past the Queen lying in state – but instead were there in a professional capacity as part of the world’s media to report on the event.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
