Viewers of were greeted with an unexpected change this week, as was joined by instead of his usual co-host for Friday's episode.

The audience was briefed on the day's upcoming features by the new pairing. Dermot typically hosts the show with Alison on Fridays, but the 50-year-old presenter was notably missing from her regular slot.

Dermot addressed the switch-up on air, expressing his delight at having Josie on board, he said: "It's great to have you with us, Josie. You're here for a few weeks." Josie confirmed her temporary role, responding: "Yeah, I'm here for a few weeks covering Alison."

Social media buzz suggests that Alison was in Salford on Thursday, rehearsing for the annual Comic Relief show set to broadcast on BBC One on Friday night, reports

Alison reposted a photo originally shared by Rylan Clark, which featured the presenters gearing up to host the charity event, including Rylan and Alison alongside Davina McCall, Joel Dommett, Alesha Dixon, and Tom Allen.

However, the reasons behind Alison's absence from This Morning over the next few weeks remain unclear. As the show commenced, Dermot warmly welcomed Josie, referencing her past injury.

On her last appearance on the ITV programme, Josie had been using a mobility scooter and crutches due to a foot injury. It appears her recovery is progressing well, as there was no sign of the scooter or crutches.

She joked about her footwear situation, commenting: "I know! But this morning I was like Cinderella, they had to bring about seven pairs of shoes for me to try on."

Recalling a painful accident, the 40-year-old recounted how a piece of marble landed on her foot while holidaying and brushing her teeth.

She expressed: "It was really painful, it still hurts now. Just saying, it still hurts now." When Dermot asked if she had sustained any broken bones, Josie appeared uncertain.

She replied: "Well, they said I broke it in Dubai, but when I came here, they said I didn't break it. So, who knows! If anybody can tell if that's broken or not."

Showing her foot to the camera, she suggested to Dermot that it seemed as though it could indeed be broken.

Audiences quickly turned to social media to commend Josie for her appearance on the show, with one viewer posting: "Today's #ThisMorning is being presented by #BBUK stars of the past, Josie, Dermot, and Kate. Love it".

This Morning continues weekdays on ITV from 10am.