The deaths of three young children who fell through ice on a frozen lake in Solihull has shaken the nation and BBC News presenter Joanna Gosling was overcome with emotion while breaking the news. She has now taken to Twitter to thank viewers for their kind messages and support.
Joanna was reporting the tragic news just after the update was confirmed by police, when she became emotional and apologised on air. Posting on Twitter Joanna said she appreciates "the care that has come my way." and that her thoughts are with the families of the children.
She said: "I can’t respond to all your kind messages after the heartbreaking news of yesterday, but I want to, so this is to say I hugely appreciate the care that has come my way. Thank you. It was shocking news and thoughts are with those who are suffering this terrible loss."
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Many viewers continued to send Joanna messages of support in the replies to her Tweet. One said: "We all felt for you, having to deliver such terrible news. We all felt the same, such a tragic story." another added: "You captured so perfectly how so sad so many of us felt at the terrible news."
A third said: "Just goes to prove newsreaders are human beings, not automatons. Credit to you Joanna for holding your composure. Very dignified."
During the broadcast Joanna became emotional and had to pause. While presenting on BBC News she said: "I have some really sad news to bring you, we are hearing three boys - aged 10, 11 and eight - have died after being pulled from an icy lake in Solihull," she said. "I am so sorry..."
The mum of three then choked up, adding: "This is terrible news, obviously. Three boys have died and there were reports six people were on the ice, and emergency services are looking at the lake having got those reports."
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