The Chase star Mark Labbett makes ‘dig’ at ex Hayley Palmer as he breaks social media silence after shock split

MARK Labbett has shown off his latest weight loss as he brushes off his shock split from girlfriend Hayley Palmer.

The couple had only just celebrated their first anniversary on a loved-up trip away when Hayley, 42, announced she and Mark, 58, had gone their separate ways.

Since then, Mark has been keeping things low key, but broke his media silence to boast of his summer plans.

Mark – who is nicknamed “The Beast” on The Chase due to his large stature, cunning quiz skills, and his surname meaning “the beast” in French – shared a picture from the same table he used to dine at with Hayley.

Praising the Seasons restaurant in Rotherham, Mark posed over a bowl of soup and fresh bread as he wrote: “My summer of protein and pain. Gym [tick] Nutrition [tick].

“Feels good to be The Beast.”

Mark previously shared photos from the exact same spot as he enjoyed romantic dates with Hayley.

At the end of May, Hayley confirmed their split on her Instagram Stories with a post that read: “It is with regret I announce that myself and Mark have gone our separate ways.

“We had the best year together and I truly wish him all the best for the future.”

She ended the message: “Off I go to listen to Taylor Swift.”

The couple got together a year ago, with Mark sounding more loved up than ever shortly before their split as he spoke with Hayley about their relationship.

In an exclusive interview, romantic Mark told The Sun at the time: “We found a bench in a peaceful spot by the beach and spent hours talking and getting to know each other, so we’ve decided to go back to celebrate our anniversary.

“As luck would have it, there’s a rather nice Beefeater near to where her parents live. They already know Hayley’s order — nachos and chips.”

They later shared a picture of them on the same beach to mark the anniversary.

A source said of the split: “Mark had a lovely time with Hayley and has a lot of respect for her but they wanted different things.

“She loves getting dressed up and going out to parties and showbiz events, whereas he prefers to stay at home.

“Mark felt there was too much of an age gap between them for long-term success. They are still friendly.

“Away from his job on telly and filming, Mark enjoys a quiet life and spending time with his son. He is still hopeful he can meet someone to settle down with one day.”