This Morning presenter Holly Willoughby has shared the sad news that her mother-in-law has died. She has been inundated with support after sharing a statement on social media.
The star paid tribute to Sandra, with whom she shared a very close bond, as she told fans the matriarch had passed away. Holly wrote: "Sleep well Sandra… Nonna, Mother, Sister, friend…
"To know her was to know strength itself… Raising four children after losing her husband, she then lost a son and more recently her sister… Thank you for your guidance, advice and bottomless Prosecco.
"Thank you for raising the incredible man I’m married to… I see your strength everyday in our children… Be at peace…Love you."
Holly posted a beaming throwback photo of her and Sandra on holiday smiling into the camera alongside her tribute, the Mirror reports. And her famous friends were quick to comment underneath the post.
This Morning co-star Vanessa Feltz said: "I am so terribly sorry to hear of Sandra’s passing. I had such a memorable conversation with her.
"She exuded wisdom kindness and warmth. Sending love to you Dan and the whole family."
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All Saints star Nicole Appleton commented: "Ahh darling sending you all soo much love. Sandra was just wonderful!" followed by a broken heart emoji.
Fellow broadcaster Kate Thornton said: "Beautiful words for a truly beautiful and remarkable woman. I’m so sorry she’s no longer with you. Sending my heartfelt condolences x."
Fans also sent well wishes after hearing Holly's sad news. "I'm so sorry to hear this. Thinking of you all. Sending hugs xxx," one person said.
Another wrote: "So sorry to read this. RIP Sandra xxx." A third said: "My hear aches for you and your children's. Nona peace be with you."
While a fourth added "So sorry to hear this Holly. Sending love to you, Dan and all sides of your family" followed by a heart emoji.
The family death is the latest thing to hit Holly this year, following weeks of turmoil on This Morning surrounding the Phillip Schofield scandal. He stepped down from the show and parted ways with ITV altogether after admitting having an "unwise but not illegal" affair with a younger male colleague while he was married.
It came after weeks of allegations that his once close relationship with former best friend Holly had become tense. After news of Phillip's affair went public, Holly said she had been let down by her pal while Phil later went onto say she had not replied to his apology texts.
Since the scandal broke, Holly has since gone on to present This Morning with co-stars Josie Gibson, Alison Hammond, Dermot O'Leary and Craig Doyle. A permanent replacement for Phillip has yet to be announced.
