BBC Countryfile presenter Helen Skelton targeted by 'disgraceful' fake ads

presenter has become the victim of several X accounts using her likeness to promote fake stories.

The 41-year-old broadcaster went viral on the social media platform - formerly known as Twitter - after several users spotted a trend of fake reports using the former Blue Peter star's name and image.

Some adverts used the headline "Helen Skelton was caught in bed with..." which featured a clearly photoshopped image of the mum-of-three.

It didn't take long before waves of users spotted the trend and slammed the platform, with others even reporting the scandal to Chancellor Rachel Reeves.

One user tweeted the politician directly, asking: "@RachelReevesMP @ASA_UK can't something be done to better regulate online advertising? These examples from Twitter. Helen Skelton appears to be particularly targeted with these 'advertisements' at present."

Another commented: "I've reported several of these anti @HelenSkelton adverts myself this morning using the built in X reporting system. What a disgraceful and unacceptable situation it is."

Elon Musk - the owner of X - has come under heavy backlash for allowing his brand of "freedom of speech" to have adverse effects.

Someone directed their complaints and the business mogul directly, fuming: "'Freedom of Speech' for Musk means allowing all kinds of cons and potentially libellous claims.

"Helen Skelton etc can only really do something if they take legal action, as Musk doesn't seem to understand common decency."

Another called for Skelton to sue Musk directly, suggesting: "Anyone else really like to see Helen Skelton take balding hellsite overlord @elonmusk to the cleaners."

Helen has yet to comment on the slurry of fake posts being distributed on X.

It comes after the TV star found herself in an awkward spot after a rumoured new romance made headlines.

After meeting on Strictly Come Dancing in 2022, the Countryfile presenter was romantically linked to professional dancer Vito Coppola.

During her BBC Radio 5 Live programme last year, the blonde bombshell was playfully ribbed about the media speculation surrounding them.

However, she swiftly dismissed any discussion surrounding her personal life following her split from rugby player Richie Myler.