Man charged over alleged plot to kidnap Holly Willoughby
Holly Willoughby's This Morning colleagues Dermot O'Leary and Alison Hammond said they were 'shocked', ITV News' Entertainment Reporter Rishi Davda reports
A man has been charged over an alleged plot to kidnap TV presenter Holly Willoughby.
Gavin Plumb, of Potters Field, Harlow has been charged with several offences including soliciting to commit murder and incitement to commit kidnap.
The 36-year-old from Harlow appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates Court on Friday.
He spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth, address and where he worked.
'We're obviously all shocked to hear the news': ITV This Morning's Dermot O'Leary and Alison Hammond send 'love and biggest hugs' to colleague Holly Willoughby
Plumb was remanded into custody by District Judge Caroline Jackson until a plea hearing at Chelmsford Crown Court on November 3.
"This was an extremely fast paced investigation, with many of our officers and national partners working overnight to secure these charges," said Detective Superintendent Rob Kirby.
“The safeguarding of any victim is paramount and we will continue to prioritise this and working with the Metropolitan Police Service as the investigation proceeds.”
Essex Police said the suspect was arrested on Wednesday.
Appearing on the This Morning sofa on Friday morning, prime minister Rishi Sunak said he was "so sorry to hear about everything going on with Holly" and "wanted to send his love to her and her family".
Ms Willoughby's ITV colleagues Dermot O'Leary and Alison Hammond said they were "shocked to hear the news" and sent their "love and hugs" to her and her family.
A spokesperson for ITV said: “This news has come as a huge shock to everyone at This Morning and ITV.
"We are providing all of the support we can to Holly and her family at this incredibly distressing time.”
ITV are also providing round-the-clock security and support for Willoughby, alongside the police.
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