Phillips is not the only mature woman to have been replaced by a rising star.

Fern Britton gave a teary goodbye on her last day of 'This Morning' earlier in July as she celebrated her 52nd birthday after 10 years presenting the show.

The popular morning TV host shocked the nation in March when she announced that she would be leaving. There was much speculation as to who the next person would be to join co-host Phillip Schofield, with popular favourites including Myleene Klass, Fearne Cotton, Cheryl Cole and Christine Bleakley.