Countdown star Susie Dent splits from husband of almost 20 years

COUNTDOWN star Susie Dent has split with her husband of almost 20 years.

The 56-year-old dictionary expert, who first joined the Channel 4 show in 1992, has been living apart from teacher Paul Atkins for the past year.

The couple, who have two daughters, remain on amicable terms and have told family and friends. 

No one else is said to be involved in the break-up. Last night, a source told The Sun: “It’s obviously a very sad situation, but Susie has handled everything stoically.

“She has ploughed on professionally with all aspects of her working life and is simply trying to make the most of a heartbreaking scenario.

“Obviously Susie and Paul did all they could to make things work, but decided in the end to part ways.”

Oxford graduate Susie first appeared on the show — now hosted by Anne Robinson, 76 — alongside late host, Richard Whiteley.

She also features on 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, the post- watershed comedy version of the series hosted by Jimmy Carr, 48.

Surrey-born Susie has written several books on the English language and launched a podcast, Something Rhymes With Purple, alongside Gyles Brandreth, 73.