Former Gogglebox star Reverend Kate Bottley has announced the tragic death of her mother. The 47-year-old shared the news on social media days after she asked her followers to pray for her mum and family after they'd received "scary" health news.
Taking to Twitter and Instagram on Monday (January 23) with a touching tribute to her mum alongside two pictures, one of them together when she was a young girl and another more recent image, Kate penned: "She really was a smasher," she wrote. "May the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace and rise in glory."
She went on: "And we'll take all the prayers, mass intentions and general positive thoughts we can get, thanks." Kate then added: "(Also FYI Dry January is cancelled, she bloody loved a Bacardi and Coke)."
Strictly and Waterloo Road star Kym Marsh was among the first to offer her support, replying to Kate's tweet: "Sending lots of love darling xx." Labour MP Jess Phillips also replied: "All my love xxxx." On Instagram, Strictly host Claudia Winkleman wrote: "Sending so much love." Former Bake Off winner John Whaite shared: "You’re in my thoughts my love."
This Morning host Dermot O'Leary commented: "Sending love my friend." Presenter Gaby Roslin posted: "Oh beautiful Kate I am so sorry. Sending you my deepest sympathies and so many hugs." Gogglebox star Izzie Warner shared: "Sending lots of love and strength your way." And Dragons' Den star Sara Davies added: "Sending you an enormous amount of love beautiful lady."
And fans were also keen to share their love and support. @vicarswatchdibley said: "Sending lots of love to you and your family Kate. Praying God’s blessing on you all." @nicolamichellepratt shared: "In our thoughts and prayers. Sending love and strength to you." @davehyp replied: "Sorry for your loss Kate. My thoughts are with you at this time." @pepermint_patty63 added: "Sending heartfelt condolences to you and your family Kate."
Kate, who appeared on Gogglebox from 2014 to 2016 with her husband Graham and has gone to appear on other TV and radio shows, revealed last week that her mum had already spent the last three weeks in hospital and was due home soon. She explained: "She's due home tomorrow. It's been tricky emotionally as well as physically.
"She has been cared for by some of the best humans, huge thanks to all @SheffieldHosp and #Solidarity #NHS." Then on Sunday, Kate had updated fans with the news her mother had been rushed to hospital. "Please pray for M #LordInYourMercy," she shared.
READ NEXT:
- Gemma Atkinson shares daughter's hilarious belly remark after discovering pregnancy as she gives glimpse at gym routine
- Stacey Solomon forced to make change as she plans for home birth with fifth child
- Gogglebox star Izzi Warner looks gorgeous in new snap during Channel 4 break
- Helen Skelton 'races home' as she shares message after first BBC Strictly live shows
- Susanna Reid's ITV Good Morning Britain habit alarms Lorraine Kelly as she appears in pyjamas
