BBC Ground Force star Charlie Dimmock on 'selfish' reason she never wanted to marry

After an 11-year hiatus from TV, Charlie Dimmock returned to our screens in 2016 as the new host of Garden Rescue alongside the Rich Brothers, Harry and David Rich, until their departure in 2021. While the gardening expert attempts to transform people's outdoor spaces, the presenter rarely discusses her love life.

The 58 year old enjoyed a long-term relationship with viticulturist John Mushet while travelling in New Zealand during the early nineties, whom she settled down with upon returning home.

John often referred to her as his "missus" during their 13-year romance, but the pair were never married and separated in 2001.

In a candid chat in 2016, Charlie revealed she was too "selfish" to ever consider getting married.

"I'm way past marriage at this point. I'm going to be 50 this year," she told the Irish Independent. "Even sharing a house with someone would be a no for me."

She continued: "I like my own company. I like to do what I want to do, I'm very selfish like that. I don't mind fitting in a bit, but I like to be able to get away and have the house to myself."

The horticultural whizz became a household name through the beloved garden transformation show, where she worked alongside fellow presenters Alan Titchmarsh and Tommy Walsh.

Charlie's life took a dramatic turn when she engaged in an unexpected affair, which she later declared she had "no regrets" about.

Following her split from John, she had a relationship with Ground Force microphone operator Andy Simmon - however, it was short-lived.

In a candid discussion about the affair back in 2002, Charlie admitted she "doesn't see Andy anymore".

She boldly stated, "But I don't regret what happened. You wouldn't do anything if you kept worrying about what might go wrong," revealing her stance on the matter.

"John and I had been together for a long time so when we split up, I relied heavily on family and close friends. I've discovered that the most difficult after-effect of the break-up is getting into another relationship."

Charlie began dating Barry Smith, a sound technician from the show crew. Since their relationship, she has kept her romantic life out of the spotlight.