Helen Skelton and Gethin Jones on Morning Live (Image: BBC)

BBC Breakfast hosts Jon Kay and Sally Nugent returned to the show this morning after their summer break, and they weren’t the only presenters to do so.

As they revealed Morning Live would be returning after a months-long break, Jon took a moment to tease hosts Helen Skelton and Gethin Jones.

“We have a true sign now that summer is over,” he began. “Morning Live is back!”

“It’s good to see you,” Gethin replied, as his co-host and former Strictly star Helen teased the segments for their upcoming programme, featuring Ben Fogle and Dr Punam Krishnan.

“Helen and Gethin, back from their gap year with Morning Live in an hour’s time,” Jon quipped.

Jon and Sally joked about Helen and Gethin’s ‘gap year’ (Image: BBC)

Gethin and Helen bid goodbye to Morning Live viewers in July, announcing they’d be “taking a break for a few weeks”, as is routine over summer.

Their return to screens comes after Gethin’s dad passed away in August, as he paid tribute on social media and thanked the NHS for his care.

In a heartfelt post with a final image with his dad in hospital, he said: “Wales defeated England..” (the famous line from Max Boyce) – Hymns and Arias with dad last night, before he left us this morning. The most perfect, peaceful end. Welsh hymns playing, and the grandsons on speaker phone saying goodbye.

“Dad was poorly for a while, he put up a good fight, incredible really. It was so nice to see his dry humour, the importance of faith and his love for classical music shine through at the end.

Gethin returned to screens just weeks after a family tragedy (Image: Getty)

“Every day I’ve been at the Heath Hospital in Cardiff, someone would stop me and ask about dad. He probably taught them at some point. He made a big impact on education in these parts over a long period of time. He was strict and direct, always reasonable. A teacher for 40 years, a headteacher for 28!

“Always grateful for the care and understanding of the wonderful NHS staff – my sister is one of them. But this time, she was also the daughter. One of the strongest I know, (and then will cry at an emotive sentence in Welsh!). She’s just been amazing, didn’t miss a beat.

“A little mention to her what’s app group with her mates. Finding the humour when needed is so important isn’t it.. along with the unconditional support. A tough old week. But lucky in so many ways.”

He was showered in love and support from fans and friends alike, with Strictly It Takes Two host Janette Manrara writing: “What beautiful words. Sending my love to you and your loved ones.”

Gethin and Helen had been on a Morning Live break since July (Image: Getty)

Gaby Roslin said: “Sending you so much love and my deepest sympathies to you and your whole family. I am so sorry Geth But they always stay in our hearts forever.”

Anthea Turner wrote: “Beautifully chosen words thinking of you. Big Hug,” while Ben Shephard said: “Sending love Geth.”

As Gethin, Helen and the Morning Live team teased their return just days ago, viewers shared their delight, with one writing: “Yay!! Record it every day to watch when home from work, such a valuable show with lots of great tips on everything, health, money, fitness, cooking, travel what’s not to love. Welcome back I’ve missed you all.”

Another said: “Fabulous!!! Our favourite morning TV family have been missed.”