Love dramas

Pals say Ant Mcpartlin’s estranged wife, Lisa Armstrong, is hoping his stint in rehab could lead to a change of heart

His court date H to face drinkdriving charges was postponed last week as he remained in rehab – and pals say Ant Mcpartlin’s estranged wife, Lisa Armstrong, has also put their divorce proceedings on hold to minimise his stress levels and support the presenter through his addiction battle.

A source says, “Lisa still loves Ant and says his health is paramount, so she’s trying to take anything off his plate that could hamper his recovery. Then he can focus solely on getting better.

“She’s can’t help thinking that if he comes out as the ‘old’ Ant she fell in love with, then it could lead to a chance of a reunion.

“So much has happened between her and Ant and she’s gone through stages of never wanting to see him again, but she’s never stopped loving him.

“Lisa’s in contact with Ant’s mum, Christine, and she’s helping her to look into various options, including finding the best facilities for him.”

Last month, pals close to the make-up artist, 41, revealed how she went through “two years of hell” in the run-up to their marriage split in January as she tried to help her husband, 42, with his addiction to alcohol and prescription drugs before his first stint in rehab last summer.

And pals say the shock of Ant’s recent drink-driving charges, following a three-car crash, has made Lisa realise just how strong her feelings still are for the I’m A Celeb! host.

An insider says, “The past few weeks have been a whirlwind for Lisa and brought to the surface all the feelings she was trying to bury.

“If they could get back to where they once were, she’d still love to make their marriage work so she’s praying this stint in rehab will make him realise how much they have to fight for.”

Ant’s presenting partner and BFF, Declan Donnelly, 42, received huge praise for presenting Saturday Night Takeaway last week without his sidekick. He is also set to host Britain’s Got Talent on his own.

Showing her support for Dec, Lisa “liked” Ashley Banjo’s Tweet, which credited him as “a legend and true pro”.

And pals say she’s working with Dec and his pregnant wife Ali Astall, 40, to support Ant.

The source adds, “Lisa speaks to Dec almost daily. They know Ant better than anyone in the world, and they’re committed to getting him back on track.

“Dec and Ali have been a huge support to Lisa and they’re also hoping that Ant’s recovery could lead to a possible reunion for the couple.”