Clare Balding Faces Family Deal-Breaker with Wife Alice

Clare Balding, a prominent BBC Sport presenter, has shared insights about her long-term relationship with Alice Arnold. The couple met while working for the BBC in 1999 and have been together for over 26 years. Their journey includes a civil partnership in 2006 and marriage in 2015, following the legalization of same-sex marriage in the UK.

Clare Balding’s Dog Dilemma with Wife Alice Arnold

In a recent episode of the Bookshelfie podcast, Clare revealed a significant question she posed early in their relationship. She emphasized the importance of having a dog in her life, recalling, “Can we get a dog?” This pivotal moment helped shape their relationship and commitment to one another.

The Importance of Pets in Their Relationship

Alice Arnold, now 64, had previously made a commitment to allow Clare to have a dog, which Alice described as one of the original promises during their early dating phase. In Clare’s book, *Isle of Dogs*, she noted that she would “never go back” on this pledge.

• Clare Balding, 55, is a renowned presenter at BBC Sport.
• Alice Arnold, 64, is a former Radio 4 announcer.
• The couple entered a civil partnership in 2006 and married in 2015.
• They have expressed a desire to own a dog again following the passing of their Tibetan terrier, Archie.

Remembering Archie

Tragically, Clare faced a loss when her beloved dog Archie was put to sleep in 2020. Clare described the heartache it caused her, leaving a “dog-shaped hole” in her heart. She made it a point to walk Archie’s favorite routes in Chiswick, London, as a way to honor his memory.

Looking to the Future

As Clare and Alice consider relocating from London to the countryside, they are looking forward to welcoming a new dog into their lives. Clare mentioned their plan to settle and hopefully adopt a dog by next spring. She fondly reminisced about the joys a dog brings, including winter walks and warm homecomings.

Clare praised Tibetan terriers for their intelligence, loyalty, and suitability for her lifestyle. Despite Alice’s allergies, these breeds provide a perfect balance for their shared home.

As they pave the way for a new chapter, the couple’s commitment remains strong. Clare Balding continues her work with a diverse portfolio, including coverage of major events like the Winter Olympics, demonstrating her dedication both in her professional and personal life.