Stars show their support for Ant McPartlin’s ‘brave’ decision as the much loved presenter checks into rehab for substance abuse problems

BRITAIN'S Got Talent presenter and one half of the dynamic duo Ant & Dec, Ant McPartlin, 41, has checked himself into a rehab facility.

The TV star is expected to spend at least two months in the facility, dealing with substance abuse problems with prescription drugs and alcohol.

Social media well wishers have started pouring in, with messages from the likes of Lord Sugar and Dame Kelly Holmes.

Lord Sugar commended Ant's bravery to go public with such a sensitive subject, and commented on how the TV presenter is now on the road to recovery.

Dame Kelly Holmes tweeted a similar sentiment, adding that "we are all human" and sent her best wishes to Ant.

Piers Morgan also took to social media to send some to Ant's way.

The TV presenter said: "Few nicer people in showbusiness than Ant McPartlin. Wish him all the best as he sorts himself out."

And Cheltenham Town footballer Dan Clifford added: "Respect to Ant McPartlin for opening up about his problems. Mental health issues can affect anyone. It's nothing to be ashamed of."

Olympic runner Iwan Thomas MBE also sent a supportive message.

The athlete tweeted: "Love & respect to Ant McPartlin for seeking help... just shows depression & addiction doesn't care about fame & success, get well soon fella."

Declan Donnelly, Ant's 41-year-old partner in crime since the Byker Grove days, tweeted from the pair's official account to thanks fans for their support with an emotional message.

He wrote: "Thank you for all the kind messages and well wishes for the big fella. He will be touched. Your support is, as ever, much appreciated. DD xx"

Vlogger Alfie Deyes showed his support with a simple heart and fans flocked to show support for the much loved TV presenter.

Speaking to The Sun on Sunday, Ant confessed that chronic pain caused by a botched knee surgery caused him to become dangerously hooked on prescription pain killers.

A failure to conceive with his wife of 11 years, Lisa McPartlin, alongside his hectic work schedule has also had an effect on his depression and consequent reliance on substances to escape.

Lisa has not yet posted anything on social media in response to the outpouring of love for her husband. Close friend and co-presenter on Ant & Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway, Stephen Mulhern, has also kept silent thus far.

The hashtag #SupportingAnt is gaining a lot of traction on social media and the TV personality is trending on twitter.

One user tweeted a video montage of the duo set to their now poignant single, By Your Side.

Although the response has been overwhelmingly positive some twitter users have taken the opportunity to have a joke, stating that no one's childhood is safe in 2017.

While another twitter user outright accused the star of being a coke head.

Read more about Ant McPartlins decision to go into rehab.

And find out how he broke down in tears when confessing to Dec that he needs help with his alcohol and drug addiction.