ITV weather presenter Ruth Dodsworth has shared a first look clip at terrifying footage in a new documentary on her abusive relationship with her ex-husband, amid her fears at the prospect of his release from prison.
The 46-year-old broadcaster's former partner Jonathan Wignall was jailed for a three year sentence one year ago after he pleaded guilty to stalking and coercive control.
Ruth - who is a familiar face on ITV Wales - appeared on Good Morning Britain to discuss his potential release with co-hosts Kate Garraway and Adil Ray.
Ruth, who recently told fans she had installed alarms "everywhere" at home, sat in the ITV studio as the programme played recordings of her husband’s shouting tirades in their home.
The footage also included police bodycam footage of police questioning Wignall on hundreds of “harassing” phone calls to Ruth.
The footage is part of ITV Tonight's documentary Controlled by My Partner? The Hidden Abuse, which will air this evening.
Exclusive police footage reveals the moment when Ruth's ex-husband was arrested.
Wignall can be heard shouting to speak with his wife as he is ushered into a police vehicle during the clip.
Speaking about her experience in the documentary trailer, Ruth said: “I had no idea that the threats and manipulation my ex-husband used for almost a decade were actually a pattern of criminal behaviour.
“He would call me dozens of times a day, wanting to know where I was and who I was with. He would check my phone and even delete contacts from it.
“He would turn up at my workplace, or insist that I leave the studio to eat lunch with him in his car.”
Ruth continued: “It wasn't until my own children began to fear for my safety that I realised what was going on wasn't normal. In October 2019, I finally called the police and my then-husband was arrested.
“My ex-husband was jailed for just 3 years and 9 months, but could be released later this year after serving less than half of his sentence - I can't pretend I'm not scared, but I am trying to stay positive.
“... Because my future is bright and my smiles are genuine now and I want anyone experiencing this abuse to know you are not alone. There is help available and you don't have to live in fear.”
ITV Tonight - Controlled by My Partner? The Hidden Abuse airs at 8.30pm on Thursday, April 5 on ITV or ITV Hub
