Man charged over Holly Willoughby ‘kidnap and murder plot’ named and pictured

Earlier today news emerged that the ITV presenter was under police guard

First reports of the plot were revealed by The Sun suggesting the 42-year-old was pulled from Thursday's This Morning show at the last minute after being told of the threat before being given police protection.

The ITV presenter was said to be "distraught" and is being monitored round-the-clock by police guard at the home she shares with husband, Daniel Baldwin, their sons Harry and Chester, and daughter Belle.

Essex Police said a 36-year-old man was arrested at a flat in Harlow on Wednesday night on suspicion of conspiracy to kidnap. The man remains in custody as police continue their inquiries.

Now the suspect has been named as Gavin Plumb.

The Sun reports that Plumb works as a security officer and appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates Court today to face charges.

Plumb was remanded into custody to next appear at the court for a plea hearing.

The father-of-two was arrested on Wednesday by Essex Police after the plot was uncovered.

According to reports, police alerted ITV producers just moments before Holly was due to go on air.

ITV are also providing security and support for Holly, the PA news agency understands.

The Sun reports that police found "sinister messages" allegedly threatening to "seriously harm" the mum-of-three.

ITV brought in Alison Hammond to stand in for Holly as she joined Josie Gibson last-minute.

Senior staff have been looking for a permanent presenter to work alongside Holly after Phillip Schofield's exit earlier this year.

Related links:

• Holly Willoughby under police guard after learning of plot to kidnap her
• This Morning booed by NTAs audience live on air
• ITV ‘offers therapy to This Morning employees’ following Phillip Schofield scandal