BBC Breakfast presenter Nina Warhurst has released a “difficult” statement after the tragic news that adopted baby Preston Davy was killed by his parents. The horrific news story hit the headlines this week as Jamie Varley was jailed for life, and his partner John McGowan-Fazakerley sentenced to 25 years in prison, with details of the abuse Preston suffered coming to light.

Now Nina has issued a heartbreaking statement, writing on Instagram: “It’s been a difficult week at work. The stories affecting children have weighed heavy on all of us in the office. I’m having a gentle day with my little one, and we will go and say a prayer later for the ones who didn’t get the start in life that every single child deserves.”

She added: “Weeks like this I am proud of the teams at the BBC for listening to the unlistenable in court, allowing families’ broken hearts to be seen, and their voices to be heard.

“Our journalists work hard to get it right, and inevitably sometimes it comes home. Children who suffer should never be forgotten.”

The praise of BBC journalists comes as the broadcaster has announced thousands of job cuts and programme cancellations due to budget constraints.

Her co-stars and fans rushed to comment, with Stacey Dooley writing: “I can’t even get past the first paragraphs without crying. It’s incomprehensible. Sending love.”

Another viewer said: “I totally agree with you, the BBC do an amazing job.”

Nina was only wearing eye make-up on one side of her face after being advised to let her eye rest. She said: “Thanks for the concerned [messages] about my asymmetrical mush.

“I’m in no pain or discomfort, and my lovely pharmacist is helping – left eye just needs a few days off make-up.”