Embattled Zoe Ball spoke out about her split from DJ Fatboy Slim, saying her relationship with drummer Dan Peppe developed after she parted from her husband.

The presenter asked for her family be treated graciously to allow them to get on with their lives.

Zoe and her husband Norman Cook, whom she married in 1999, separated last month and Zoe has since been living in their flat in north London while Norman remains at their home in Hove.

The radio host is taking a break from London station Xfm.

She said: "I am trying very hard to conduct my personal life away from the eyes of the Press but this is proving impossible so there are a number of things I want to say in the hope that you will now give me some space."

Zoe, who issued a statement, continued: "I left Norman at the beginning of December. There were problems in our marriage and I had subsequently met someone else. I told Norman in December that this was the case. He didn't want to know the name or any other details.

"My friendship with Daniel Peppe has developed since then.

"Being there for my son Woody is vital - he has been spending three days a week with me in London and we have been doing the usual mother and son stuff.

"I am taking two weeks' break from my show. I had already planned a holiday around this time."

Zoe, who has been followed by reporters from the national Press since the love split was revealed two weeks ago, ended with a plea to be left alone.

"Please be gracious enough to leave us all to get on with our lives."

Daniel Peppe is a DJ and part of underground act Themroc. He has also released tracks under the name Agent Provocateur.