Patrick Kielty is feared to be "in a very dark place" if Cat Deeley decides to return to the US with their children, according to insiders.

The couple revealed this week that they have parted ways after 13 years of marriage, a shock announcement which has reportedly caused significant concern for both parties. Residents in Dundrum, County Down - Patrick's hometown - expressed their worry for the 54 year old star, who tied the knot with Cat in Rome in September 2012.

Those close to Patrick, who shares two children with Cat, are apprehensive that the presenter would be heartbroken if his former partner returns to the US, where they previously resided. An insider shared: "Everyone is worried about Paddy. The fear is that Cat will go back to America with the little ones. That will leave him in a very dark place."

This news comes as it was revealed that another celebrity couple, Helen Skelton and Gethin Jones, have separated after he joined a notorious dating app during a lads' holiday.

Cat took over presenting duties on ITV's This Morning last year alongside Ben Shephard, following the departures of Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby. However, since she and Patrick confirmed their separation, it emerged that 48 year old Cat found the transition back to the UK challenging, reports The Mirror.

As a result, there is growing concern that Cat, who began her career hosting SMTV Live on Saturday mornings, might quit her role on This Morning and return to the US. Television insiders told Mail Online: "Cat's time on This Morning has not been a failure, but it has hardly been a roaring success.

"It is a job which puts her under so much scrutiny, day-in and day-out, and unlike most British presenters she has plenty more lucrative options to choose from in the States... There is concern that all of this family drama could lead her to walk away."

Cat and Patrick, a comedian and TV host, had been based in Los Angeles for more than 14 years, where Cat fronted the reality TV programme, So You Think You Can Dance.

Following their return, Cat quickly joined This Morning, which is understood to be amongst several ITV daytime programmes facing budget reductions.

The broadcaster recently unveiled plans for a major overhaul, which involves slashing Lorraine by 30 minutes and axing it entirely during school holidays from January.

It is believed This Morning is set to relocate from its current base in White City, west London, to a smaller, more cost-effective studio in the centre of the capital.

Meanwhile, Cat, who hails from West Bromwich, West Midlands, has also been candid about her difficulties adjusting to the 5am alarm calls for the four days a week she hosts This Morning, and has disclosed that it resulted in her and Patrick sleeping in separate beds most nights.