TV star Clare Balding has graced our screens for several years and with three decades in broadcasting, she has established herself as one of the country's most esteemed and recognisable presenters, having also hosted major sporting events such as the Olympics, Paralympic Games, Grand National, Commonwealth Games and Wimbledon. Her popularity among audiences has led to increased interest in her personal life, with her relationships and even some controversies making headlines over the years. Here's all you need to know about Balding's life outside of the studio, including her fears about disclosing her sexuality, her "appalling" ex-boyfriend, and her famous wife.

Balding first crossed paths with her wife, broadcaster Alice Arnold, in 1999 while they were both employed by the BBC. Initially, they were just close friends but their relationship blossomed into romance in 2002, when a national newspaper revealed Balding's sexuality. In 2006, the couple formalised their relationship through a civil partnership and later exchanged vows in a private ceremony in 2015, following the legalisation of same-sex marriage in the UK. Their marriage was subsequently back-dated to their civil partnership in 2006.

Alice Arnold, who served as a newsreader and continuity announcer on BBC Radio 4 for over two decades, is currently hosting on Mellow Magic for Bauer Media Audio UK.