The couple’s relationship has been questioned over the past few days, after pictures emerged of Ben with his former dance partner Kristina Rihanoff in the Sunday Mirror.
However, in a joint statement, the couple vehemently denied there was anyone else involved in their decision.
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“Ben and Abby Cohen have agreed to take time apart to deal with some marital issues but remain fully committed to the welfare of their children,” a spokesperson said.
“There is no third party involved, and Ben and Abby now ask that their privacy and that of their family be respected at this difficult time.”
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They added there would be no further comment.
The couple – who met in 1995 and have two daughters together – were brought into the limelight after Ben joined the BBC1 show’s Strictly line-up.
At the time, Kristina gave an interview about working with the rugby player, saying:
“I invited her along to rehearsal. I told her ‘You’re more than welcome to come at any time, with the kids.’ I don’t want her to feel threatened by me, I want to make sure she is there for the both of us.”
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