S Club 7 star Jo O'Meara has opened up on the heartbreaking loss of her friend and fellow bandmate Paul Cattermole after the 46-year-old star passed away at his home last week.
Jo, who formed part of the iconic 90s and 00s band S Club 7 with Paul, admitted she was "totally shocked and heartbroken" following the news of his passing. The pop legend was found dead at his home in Dorset on April 6. There are no suspicious circumstances around his death.
Jo, 43, took to social media to pen a heartfelt tribute to her friend, calling him the "sweetest soul" and said that she would "forever treasure the memories" they made.
In a heartbreaking Instagram post, she said: "I just wanted to reach out and thank everybody from the bottom of my heart for the love and kindness you have shown over the tragic passing of our sweetest soul Paul.
"This has been utterly devastating , and I am totally shocked and heartbroken.
"We have lost someone so incredibly special to us all , and there is a huge sense of sadness that will never go.
"Paul will forever be a huge part of our lives , and I will forever treasure the memories we made ! I will love you always Paul , God bless you my darling , Rest in forever Peace. Love JoJo."
Kym Marsh, who was a member of pop group Hearsay commented on the post, writing: "Sending so much love to you all," as she shared her thoughts with all the band.
Another added: "So sorry darling . Such a beautiful person inside and out You are in my thoughts and prayers," as they shared love hearts and prayers.
"Had the pleasure of meeting him a couple of times and was always struck by how gentle and sweet he was. A real role model for me when growing up," quipped another fan.
After Paul's death was confirmed, his S Club 7 bandmates Hannah Spearritt, Rachel Stevens, Tina Barrett, Jon Lee, Bradley McIntosh and Jo posted a tribute on social media.
They wrote: "We are truly devastated by the passing of our brother Paul. There are no words to describe the deep sadness and loss we all feel.
"We were so lucky to have had him in our lives and are thankful for the amazing memories we have.
"He will be so deeply missed by each and every one of us. We ask that you respect the privacy of his family and of the band at this time."
Sources close to Hannah and Jo have revealed it's "highly likely" the reunion will continue in Paul's honour, according to reports in The Mirror.
One source said: “The band are still too upset to talk about this properly but from the little that’s been said, they want the tour to go ahead. Paul was one of the first to sign up for the reunion and would always talk about the positive vibe the band managed to create with their music.
“It seems like performing those gigs as they planned would be the best way to pay tribute to his memory. But things are still very raw.”
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