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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Entertainment
Connor Teale & Lottie Gibbons

Emmerdale star's teary farewell as she 'wishes she could have done more' for Nikki Grahame

A former Emmerdale star said she 'wishes she could have done more' following the tragic news of Nikki Grahame's death.

Reality TV star, Miss Grahame, who rose to fame as a contestant on Big Brother, died aged 38.

Miss Grahame, originally from Northwood in London, had recently received treatment for an eating disorder at a specialist clinic following a fundraising campaign organised by friends and fans.

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The Gofundme.com campaign had raised more than £69,000 since its launch on March 10, with organisers saying they had "exhausted every avenue possible".

A statement from her representative said: "It is with immeasurable sadness that Nikki Grahame passed away in the early hours of Friday 9th April 2021."

Gemma Oaten, who appeared on Emmerdale as Rachel Breckle between 2011 and 2015, posted the emotional message to her Instagram on Saturday evening, reports LeedsLive.

Taking to Instagram, Ms Oaten - who has herself been in recovery from anorexia - said she was "so sorry to lose such a bright and beautiful human being".

Fighting back tears, Ms Oaten said: "I felt like I had to say this now. I am so sorry to Nikki's family and close friends and I am so sorry, Nikki.

"I send so much love and support. If anybody is going through this, please, please, please, speak out.

"I know things are difficult because people can't get the help that they need straight away - but you can reach out to Seed (an eating disorder support service) for support.

"You are not alone and this is not something that you have to suffer with."

Ms Oaten went on: "I am so sorry that you were failed, Nikki. I send all the love in the world to Nikki's family and friends, and if they need support, Seed [Seed Eating Disorders support service] is here as well.

"I personally knew Nikki - not as a best friend in any way - but I knew her. I wish I could have done more."

In a caption accompanying the video, Ms Oaten wrote: "Nikki, you mattered and were truly loved. Sleep well darling girl and be free from pain."

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