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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Entertainment
Jessica Sansome

BBC and ITV presenter Nicky Campbell pays heartbreaking tribute to his D Day-hero mum who has died

Presenter Nicky Campbell has paid a touching tribute to his mum who died this week at the aged of 96.

The BBC 5 Live and Long Lost Family host announced on Twitter that Shelia Campbell died on Wednesday.

Shelia and husband Frank Campbell adopted Nicky when he was a newborn baby and in his heartbreaking message, the 58-year-old said it was the day he "won the lottery."

He said of his late mother, who worked as a radar operator during World War II: "My mum Sheila died yesterday at 96. We made a BBC programme together about her service as a radar operator and she was immensely proud of her role on D Day.

"Her life's work was as a social worker helping others. The day she and Dad adopted me was the day I won the lottery. She doted on her grandchildren and my girls completely adored her. Everyone did."

He added: "I am so lucky and proud to have had her as my mum and we will miss her more than we can ever express. She was my adoptive mum. She was my real mum."

Following his own experience of adoption, Nicky has been a part of ITV's Long Lost Family since 2011 which helps to reunite relatives after years of separation.

Shelia adopted Nicky when he was a few days old but husband Frank sadly died in 1996.

Many friends and fans have been offering their condolences to Nicky on social media.

Following his own experience Nicky and Davina McCall help reunite families (Shared Content Unit)

Co-host Davina McCall said: "What a wonderful woman she was ... Love you @NickyAACampbell thinking of you and your family x."

Piers Morgan added: "Very sorry to hear this, Nicky. She sounds a wonderful lady. RIP."

Carol Vorderman also said: "She would have been so proud of you Nicky ... she gave you a great early life and you gave her everything possible in return... that's love xxxx."

Gabby Logan, Jo Whiley, Victoria Derbyshire and Al Murray also offered their love and support to the radio and TV host.

Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device. You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here . And you can follow us on Facebook here .

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