Ashley Banjo has split from his wife Francesca after 16 years

They shared the news on Instagram.

Ashley Banjo, who rose to fame for being part of the dance group Diversity, has separated from his wife Francesca Abbott. The couple had ben together for 16 years. The reached the decision to split a year and a half ago. The dancer shared the news via his Instagram story with a post that read: "After much thought and consideration we both feel now is the time to share some personal news. "Nearly 18 months ago we took the difficult decision to separate. After being together for over 16 years, since we were teenagers, this is not a decision that has been taken lightly. "It has not been easy and the processing of the situation has not been fast by any means. But we feel that as we approach the new year it is the time to share this news with others." Ashley explained that their priority is that their two children, Rose and Micah, are in a "happy and healthy environment". He wrote: "Our main focus will always be our beautiful children. Every decision that has been made is to make sure we can continue as a loving family and give the very best of ourselves as parents. "Rose and Micah in a happy and healthy environment is the most important thing to both of us. "Sometimes after so many years people just move in different directions, but we do so lovingly and we continue to try and be both the best parents possible and the best of friends to each other. "We have always been private with our personal lives, so we kindly ask that everyone please continue to respect that privacy. We won’t be making any further comment on the situation." The message was then signed off with love from both Ashley and Francesca.

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