Denise Welch has been left heartbroken following the death of her father Vin.
The Loose Women star said she was "grief stricken" as she announced the sad news on Instagram on Wednesday morning.
Denise, 63, had documented her dad's health battles in recent months, regularly keeping her followers updated after he spent time in hospital earlier this year.
But sharing a photo of her hand clasped around her father's this morning, Denise said: "The words I’ve dreaded saying all of my life.
"Last night at 11pm, we lost our dad, the life force that was Vin Welch. After making a miraculous recovery recently from major surgeries, pneumonia plus his existing pulmonary fibrosis was more than even he could take.
"He left us surrounded by his family who could not have loved anyone more."
She continued: "I can’t quite function as I’m so grief-stricken, but I know he meant so much to so many people, even those who’d never met him.
"I’ve never seen anyone fight to stay longer at a party than dad and last night was no different.
"He loved life and lived it to the full like no other."
She went on to thank hospital staff for their care.
Adding: "The nurses in Ward 6 at Durham University hospital will forever be in our hearts as they gave dad the most peaceful passing anyone could wish for. They adored him and he them. Heather, Helen, Lauren, Naz, Chloe, Graham, Debs to name but a few. We will Never forget you.
"Love you, dad. Heartbroken."
Denise was flooded with support from friends.
Ruth Langsford wrote: "So, so sorry Denise….he was a one off and there’s going to be one hell of a party in heaven. I know your heart is breaking but grief is the price we pay for love. You will carry him with you always. RIP Vin."
While Coronation Street star Samia Longchambon commented: "Sending the tightest hugs Den."
To get the latest showbiz news from WalesOnline sent straight to your inbox sign up for our What's On newsletter here.
