The One Show’s Alex Jones forced to move away from co-host amid coronavirus crisis complaints

THE One Show hosts Alex Jones and Patrick Kielty changed their seating arrangements during Thursday's episode in a remarkable moment following viewer complaints.

Thursday's episode began with the pair sat close to each other, the standard style for the magazine show, but by the time they returned following the first segment, they had moved apart, and later moved further apart when Alex acknowledged viewer concerns.

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"We are having a lot of emails about social distancing and the fact that we're quite close together," Alex said.

"We hear you, and we've moved farther apart."

She added: "It''s just hard to break habits, isn't it? That's what it is. We're so used to sitting, but yeah, you are absolutely right."

Viewers had taken to social media to complain about the hypocrisy on display as the programme focused on what communities could do to help each other as the country faces an unprecedented task.

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"Show some leadership," vented one annoyed viewer, "at least one metre between people, but preferably two metres."

Another called the decision "unbelievable Stupidity" while a third sarcastically added: "Great job promoting social distancing."

Social distancing has been described as one of the most effective methods to tackle the outbreak of COVID-19.

According to experts, this practice will help to slow down the spread of the disease.

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Social distancing simply means keeping your distance from people, and the advice is to generally avoid crowds in an effort to stop the spread of the disease.

However, if you MUST come into contact with other people, experts advise to keep a one-metre distance between other people.

Social distancing also suggests you reduce general contact with people, if possible.

Public Health England says: "Avoid non-essential use of public transport, varying your travel times to avoid rush hour, when possible".

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The organisation has also advised the public to work from home and avoid large gatherings like concerts and small gatherings like the cinema, the pub or clubs.

The current advice is EVERYONE must follow PHE's guidance on social distancing, not only those at high risk.