Vernon Kay was left "welling up" on-air as country singer Ashley McBryde recounted a touching moment involving a young admirer. The exchange followed the Grammy award-winning artist sharing a deeply personal encounter she had experienced with one of her heroes during her youth.

Ashley, 42, recalls meeting renowned songwriter Carl Jackson at a concert more than thirty years ago, where she introduced herself as an aspiring songwriter. Rather than simply brushing her aside, Carl reportedly produced a guitar and invited her to perform something for him. That meaningful moment remained with Ashley throughout the entirety of her career. She herself experienced a similarly poignant full-circle moment recently when a young fan approached her following a concert.

Speaking on Radio 2, Ashley said: "And not long ago, we were leaving the Opera House, I usually leave pretty late because I stay for the whole thing, and as we were leaving, this young girl, and she's probably eight, nine, I had noticed her during the set, she was singing every word, and now I'm leaving the building, she's coming through on the After Hours tour, and I said, 'Oh, you're the girl from the front row'.

"She marched up to me and said, 'My name is Sawyer June and I play the guitar and I'm from Oklahoma, I sing and write songs'. And the way she presented herself was just lovely and strong.

"Her mum said she really plays Bible And A .44 really well, so I said, 'I have a guitar here, we should sit down, and you should sing this to me', because those are the gifts I was given." As she relayed the anecdote, Vernon interrupted: "Why am I welling up here? That's so cool because you've installed, automatically, belief in that child."

Last week, father-of-two Vernon spoke about his surprising separation from former Strictly Come Dancing host Tess Daly. The couple issued a joint statement on Friday announcing the conclusion of their 22-year relationship.

During a conversation with Radio 2 colleague Gary Davies on Monday, Vernon said: "I just want to say on behalf of myself and Tess, thank you, thank you, for all your well wishes, it's been greatly, greatly, appreciated."

Vernon and Tess first crossed paths in 2001 when both were emerging talents in the television industry. Twelve months later, Vernon proposed to Tess on Christmas Day at her parents' residence, and they wed the following September in his home town, at St Mary's Catholic Church near Bolton.

However, in an Instagram post on Friday, the couple wrote: "After much consideration, and with a deep sense of care and respect for one another, we have made the decision to separate amicably.

"This has not been an easy choice, but it comes from a place of mutual understanding and a shared desire for what is best for both of us. We remain great friends and most importantly, fully committed to our roles as loving and supportive parents, which will always be our priority.

"There are no other parties involved in this decision. We kindly ask for privacy during this time as we navigate this transition together. We will not be making any further public comments. Tess and Vernon."

Back in December, Vernon battled to contain his emotions as he paid homage to Tess ahead of her final Strictly Come Dancing appearance. He said: "I've got to say this, it's Tess' last Strictly on Saturday."

He continued: "She has been at the helm of that show with Bruce [Forsyth] and Claudia and it's been nothing but ruckus fun. It's been the favourite show of the nation's since it started and it's seen our two kids arrive through the show as well."

During his touching tribute, he added: "And I've just got to say, congratulations Tess on an amazing run. It does feel like we've lost a friend but what she's achieved on that show is exceptional."

Earlier this week speculation surfaced suggesting that Emma Willis will assume the role as one of the Strictly presenters. This however remains unconfirmed by the BBC.