Fern Britton has added more fuel to the rumours that she there is a rift developing between her and Phillip Schofield, by quitting the ITV Soap Awards.

Fern announced her decision to quit ITV’s This Morning this week and immediately people began speculating that Fern was leaving due to jealousy over Phillips TV success and huge wages. She has denied the rumours but has now announced that she won’t be presenting the Soap Awards with Schofield either.

An insider told The Sun: “Would you want to stand next to someone when they’re getting paid twice as much?”

Fern is said to have already accepted a high profile job with the BBC whilst ITV insiders are said to be chasing Melanie Sykes to take her place.

An ITV source said: “Fern’s replacement is in a one-horse race.

“This Morning is determined to sign Melanie and made a formal approach today.”