Gemma Atkinson and Gorka Marquez
(Image: Gorka Marquez Instagram)

Gorka Marquez says 'as if' in Gemma Atkinson tribute as she celebrates milestone after Strictly Blackpool visit

by · Manchester Evening News

Gorka Marquez has shared his disbelief over Gemma Atkinson's age as he shared a sweet tribute to mark her milestone birthday. The Hits Radio host turns 40 on Saturday (November 16) and her beau sweetly took to social media before the eve of her special day.

Sharing a selfie as she lay in bed alongside her daughter Mia, five, she told her fans and followers: "Last night in my 30s. Tomorrow marks a new decade. Feeling happy, content, excited and extremely grateful."

The Bury-born star then hilariously added: "I'm assuming my 40s will still be as rock n roll with my 9pm bedtime," adding a crying laughing emoji.

READ MORE: Gemma Atkinson 'spoilt' as childhood crush tells her she 'looks 22' over personal update

Then as the spcial occasion arrived, Gorka was first to take to social media to publicly celebrate his fiancee on her birthday. He shared a string of pictures to Instagram - which featured a gorgeous black and white snap of the pair during a recent night out at the Pride of Britain Awards together as well as everyday snaps of Gemma.

One of the photos was an emotional moment captured between Gemma and one of her beloved dogs following the upsetting death of their pooch Norman earlier this year while Gorka also shared sweet holiday snaps of Gemma with their two kids. Alongside the post, the Strictly Come Dancing star said: "HAPPYBIRTHDAY baby!!!!"

He continued: "40 never looked better to me. I was supposed to get you a gift but I am the one who got it. Can’t wait to celebrate your big day with you. Thank you for all what you do for our little Famila. We love you so much!!’ As if you are freakin 40."

Gorka paid tribute to Gemma on her 40th birthday
(Image: Gorka Marquez Instagram)

And the birthday wishes quickly came flooding in from Gorka's Strictly co-stars. Neil Jones said: "Happy Birthday and welcome to the club." Johannes Radebe wrote: "Happy birthday Gem." Dr Punam Krishan replied: "Happy birthday @glouiseatkinson Here’s to the next decade and beyond. May it be blessed with love, laughter and good health."

Carlos Gu shared: "Happy birthday queen! You are in your best era now!" Helen Skelton posted: "happy best chapter team." JB Gill added: "Happy Birthday @glouiseatkinson. A new decade super exciting. Enjoy every single second!"

It comes after Gemma joined Gorka in Blackpool on Friday (November 15) ahead of Strictly's annual special. She took their children Mia and one-year-old Thiago along to watch the reahearsals in the iconic Tower Ballroom as well as enjoy time on the famous set.

It comes after the family visited Gorka in Blackpool
(Image: Gorka Marquez Instagram)

Sharing a string of adorable photos on Instagram - which included Mia and Thiago taking their place at the judges' desk, Gorka said: "Best visitors came to Blackpool. Thiagos first time in the Tower and Mia make sure she show him around."

JLS star JB was quick to respond, writing: "Little Gorks & Little Gem," while his former dance partner and Gorka's fellow Strictly pro Amy Dowden said: "I love these pictures! Gorgeous family and lovely happy faces." Karen Hauer also shared: "Love this so much," while Emmerdale star Amy Walsh added: "Amazing!!!!!!"