Strictly's Gemma Atkinson heartbroken over tragic family loss as she's flooded with support

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Former Hollyoaks actress Gemma Atkinson has taken to social media to share the heartbreaking news that her beloved Auntie Sheila has passed away at the age of 93 as she was soon flooded with support from fans and Strictly co-stars.The 38-year-old former Strictly Come Dancing star hailed her auntie as the "kindest most caring lady" who taught her to "stay positive" as she opened up on the tragic loss for the family following the attendance of her funeral.She shared a sweet clip of Sheila and her daughter Mia, four, alongside a pic showing Sheila kiss Mia on the cheek.

Gemma wrote: "Today we said goodbye to Auntie Shelia. The kindest most caring lady and eldest relative we have. The matriarch of our family.""After almost 93 years her body became tired," Gemma explained in the caption. "Now at peace and reunited with Uncle Peter and many more relatives, I’m sure they’ll be having a celebration together just as we did today at her send off."She revealed the thing she will miss most about her auntie as she added: "As sad as funerals are, it’s always lovely having the family together having a good laugh and a good buffet!

Thanks for teaching our family to always stay positive."Gemma continued: "I’m convinced that’s why you lived so happy for so long, because regardless of the situation you always looked on the bright side. "Sleep well…I’ll miss your pound coins sellotaped in my Birthday card this year, but I know you’ll check in on everyone now & again." Join the Daily Record's WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages. Among those sending their condolences to the star were Strictly professional Karen Hauer and her partner Gorka Marquez, who was recently axed from the show