(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Jesse James is "so sad" about his split from fiance Kat Von D, claiming that he still loves her.

The 42-year-old television personality had been due to marry the 29-year-old tattoo artist in a summer wedding. They had been an item for less than a year, and Kat last night confirmed the split via social-networking site Twitter.

Jesse told People.com he was devastated, although a split had been necessary as Kat is based in Los Angeles and Jesse near Austin, Texas.

"I'm so sad because I really love her. The distance between us was just too much," he lamented.

Kat's cryptic Twitter message had given less of an indication as to the reasons for the split. She was keen to show she still holds him in high esteem though.

"I am no longer w Jesse, and out of respect for him, his family and myself, thats all the info I'd like to share (sic)," wrote Kat.

Jesse's divorce from Hollywood actress Sandra Bullock was finalised in June 2010, with Kat and Jesse beginning their relationship only months later. Jesse and Kat had been plagued by split rumours of late, although until now had denied them. (C) Cover Media