Van Outen returns to breakfast TV

Denise Van Outen will return to UK breakfast television as she presents This Morning for six weeks over the summer with Richard Bacon.

The former Big Breakfast star will take over hosting duties in July and August, while Fern Britton, Phillip Schofield and Lorraine Kelly take a break.

Ex-EastEnders star Chris Parker, who played Spencer Moon, will also be making a comeback to present TV gossip reports on the show every Tuesday.

It will be the first time in the ITV1 show’s 18-year history that it has remained on-air during the summer.

Former Chicago star Denise, 31 said: “After being a fan of the show for many years I’m really excited about taking over the sofa for summer and working with Richard.”

The summer edition of This Morning begins on Monday, July 18 and finishes on Friday, August 26.