ITV viewers in tears as Bradley Walsh halts The Chase after contestant's emotional plea

Bradley Walsh brought The Chase to an emotional halt during Friday's episode (August 15), after one contestant made a heartfelt request to the long-standing host - leaving viewers in bits. The long-running ITV quiz show saw Rhys, Ann, Bethan and Darren go head-to-head with Chaser Darragh 'The Menace' Ennis. But it was contestant Ann who stole the spotlight - and the nation's hearts - when she opened up about her husband's battle with dementia.

Before stepping up to play, Ann, 87, turned to host Bradley Walsh and asked: "Could I make a plug for my husband?" Without missing a beat, Bradley smiled warmly and replied: "Plug away, darling." Ann then said: "His name is John, he is in a care home and they'll all be watching. Can you say hello to John and all the staff?" Bradley instantly turned to the camera and said: "John, lots of love to you mate, everyone looking after everyone there, and especially those looking after John."

He followed it up with a heartfelt message: "Thank you so, so much from myself and Ann. Lots of love."

Ann's touching moment triggered a flood of emotion online, with viewers taking to social media to share their reactions.

One fan posted: "Got something in my eye," while another wrote: "I'm in tears now, bless her."

The tears didn't stop there, as another viewer confessed: "I'm crying and I haven't even burnt the dinner yet," and one more added: "This is breaking my heart. Just give her the money!"

After the usually fast-paced game show paused for a rare moment of tenderness, Bradley gently brought the tone back up: "Now are you ready to play?"

It wasn't just the emotion that made Ann stand out - she also held her nerve in the game, banking an impressive £6,000. Rhys matched her with another £6,000, while Bethan brought home £3,000 and Darren added £5,000 to the pot.

The team headed into the Final Chase with a respectable £20,000 on the line - and 16 steps between them and the Chaser.

Fans were rooting for Ann, gushing: "If the other contestants F this up for Ann in the final, we'll have to send the boys round, there will be trouble," and "What an absolute darling Ann is ... Darragh needs to throw the final so she can get the money she really deserves".

But despite their solid efforts, Darragh 'The Menace' Ennis caught them with just 12 seconds to spare, snatching away the prize.

Fans made one final plea to Bradley after Ann confessed she was planning to take her supportive family and friends out for dinner with her winnings, penning: "I hope Bradley gave her the dosh to take her friends and supporters out for a slap up meal..."