Strictly’s Helen Skelton marks daughter’s first birthday and shares emotional post after whirlwind year

HELEN Skelton has marked her youngest daughter Elsie’s first birthday with an emotional post.

It’s been a whirlwind year for the Countryfile host, 39, after she split from husband Richie Myler before competing in Strictly Come Dancing.

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Helen reposted a black and white photo of her daughter uploaded by Stevie Atkins, the wife of rugby player Ryan Atkins.

The message read: “Happy first birthday to you Elsie.

“You are the most adorable little girl who stole our hearts the second we laid eyes on you. We hope your day is fun and everything you deserve it to be.

“All our love, hugs and kisses from Stevie, Ryan, Nala and Jada xxx.”

Stevie also sent a sweet message to her friend, adding: “Happy birthing day to you too super mummy @helenskelton.

“Love you more than words can say. Have a glass of champagne for me too today, mwah x.”

Helen, also mum to Ernie, seven, and Louis, five, credits Strictly for giving her a new lease of life following her shock marriage split, which occurred just four months after the birth of Elsie.

Confirming the break-up in April this year, it emerged just weeks later Leeds Rhinos player Richie was dating Stephanie Thirkill, 32 — daughter of the club’s multi-millionaire owner Andrew.

The pair are now expecting their own child together.