Fern Britton has scored a role in the Christmas special of All Star Musicals following a 'tough year' after her split from husband Phil Vickery.

The presenter, 64, will appear on the ITV programme, competing against five other stars in the programme, hosted by John Barrowman, 54, who was recently axed from the Dancing On Ice after admitting to 'exposing himself' on the Dr Who set.

Fern and the other famous contestants will receive training from ­choreographers and singing teachers in preparation for a performance which will be judged by singer Elaine Paige, 73, actress Samantha Barks, 31, and actor Trevor Dion ­Nicholas.

The competitors will take to the stage with a West End ensemble, with Fern being able to draw on her 2012 Strictly Come Dancing experience.

Fern will be up against actor Ben Miller, 55 former MP and broadcaster Gyles Brandreth, 73, presenter Anita Rani, 44, actress Catherine Tyldesley, 38, and sports presenter Radzi Chinyanganya, 34.

Broadcaster Fern said: 'A chance to dress up and dance with a full orchestra! What a Christmas present!'

All Star Musicals will return again for a second run within a matter of weeks early in 2022.

Host John said: 'We're back with not one but two helpings of this ­feel-good and fabulous musical affair.'

Earlier this year, TV barrister Robert Rinder, 43, won the show after performing Be Our Guest as Lumiere from Beauty and the Beast.

The news comes after Fern recently admitted the past three years were 'very hard' after splitting from her husband Phil, 60.

The star relocated to Cornwall following the end of her marriage last year, telling Good Housekeeping this summer: 'Yes I'm not afraid of change… The last three years have been very hard; I lost my parents, I lost my marriage.  

'I lost my other home in Buckinghamshire, too, because Phil lives there now and I'm in Cornwall. But the magic I've found here is incredible. I've made some wonderful girlfriends and that's been a lovely surprise.'

The former This Morning presenter announced her split from Phil in January 2020, with the pair both tweeting in matching statements.

They said: 'After more than 20 happy years together, [we] have decided to go our separate ways. We will always share a great friendship and our lovely children.

'We would appreciate it if our privacy is respected at this time. Thank you for your continued kindness and support. [sic]'  

The couple tied the knot 20 years ago in 2000, after Fern had split from former husband Clive in the same year following a 12-year marriage.

The couple share daughter Winnie, 19, whilst the Ready Steady Cook presenter also has twins Harry and Jack, 27, and Grace, 24, with former husband Clive Jones.

All Star Musicals will air this Christmas on ITV and ITV Hub.