HE LOVED YOU SO MUCH, ZOE
Tragic boyfriend told pal he adored It Takes Two star
ZOE Ball’s tragic boyfriend told how in love he was with the TV presenter, shortly before his suspected suicide.
Billy Yates confided in close friend Sophie Phelps how much he “adored” his new girlfriend who was “overcome with grief” yesterday.
It is believed Billy, who had worked as a cameraman on the Antiques Roadshow, was battling mental-ill health issues.
In her tribute, Billy’s soulmate Sophie posted on Instagram: “My thoughts are with you Zoe. Billy loved you so much and would tell me how much he adored you. He’s been there for me through some really dark times.
“Today is a very sad day. I’ve lost an amazing friend to a seriously cruel and unfair illness.
“I’m devastated. I hope he’s finally at peace and his head is at rest. I’ll never forget him and I’m going to beat this illness for him.”
Grief
Shortly after Billy’s body was found at his flat in Putney, South West London, on Thursday, Zoe posted a moving simple picture of a pink flower saying: “My sweet love”.
A close friend said she was struggling to come to terms with the loss. “She is overcome with grief,” the pal said. “Billy had made her happy again after the most horrendous year when her marriage broke down.”
It Takes Two star Zoe was replaced by Kate Thornton on her Radio 2 show yesterday.
She had started dating Billy four months ago after she split from DJ husband Norman Cook, 53, in September.
The Sunday Mirror first revealed Billy and Zoe’s romance in February. Her dad, former TV personality Johnny Ball, 78, said: “We’re happy she’s finding a new lease of life. She’s very happy at the moment and that’s lovely.”
Billy was last seen out at lunchtime going to a local shop before heading back to his second floor flat, where he is thought to have spent the rest of the day on his own.
Neighbours said he had not been showing any signs of depression lately.