Eamonn and Ruth fear 'This Morning' axe

This Morning presenters Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford have said they fear getting the chop from This Morning as ITV chiefs try to save money.

The pair, who got engaged earlier this year, co-host the show on Friday mornings - but The Sun reports they have yet to received contracts for the next series which begins in September.

And bosses were unable to reassure them at a meeting this week that their jobs were safe.

"Eamonn and Ruth are really worried they are the next stars facing the axe," a source told the paper.

"They love presenting the show and have great chemistry on air. But Eamonn in particular is expensive and he is worried they can no longer afford him."

The pair have received support from staff on the programme since the meeting.

"Everyone wants them to stay - it will be a sad day if they leave," a show insider said.

Ruth had been tipped to take over from Fern Britton when she leaves the show in July, but was not offered the permanent role.

The paper reports that Phillip Schofield has asked show chiefs to replace her with his Dancing On Ice co-presenter Holly Willoughby - saying she is the only person he can work with.

"Holly would be a great addition," the insider added, "but it would be a huge commitment for her."