TOWIE's Kate is pictured for the first time with Rio Ferdinand as it emerges she has QUIT reality show

Double trouble: The 25-year-old appeared deep in conversation on her phone as she headed out in Essex with the sporting icon a few steps behind her

They have been linked since January - and TOWIE's Kate Wright and footballer Rio Ferdinand have been pictured together for the first time.

The 25-year-old appeared deep in conversation on her phone as she headed out in Essex with the sporting icon a few steps behind her.

The outing comes as Kate has decided to hang up her stilettos when it comes to the reality show that shot her to stardom and decided to quit TOWIE.

All things Wright and beautiful: TOWIE's Kate was pictured for the first time with Rio Ferdinand in Essex - as it emerges she has QUIT reality show which made her a household name

The stunner appeared content as she headed out in a black vest top which showed off her curves.