Ruth Langsford has shared her heartache after her sister Julia Johnson died following a long illness.
Sharing a gorgeous picture of them together on Instagram , she said: "My lovely Sis Julia has sadly died after a very long illness. My heart is completely broken. She was the kindest and most gentle soul and I will miss her forever. As I am sure you will appreciate I need to take time to grieve with my family. Thank you for your understanding."
Julia was 62.
Ruth's friends and fans rushed to offer their condolences.
Melanie Sykes said: "Oh Ruth I’m so sorry x sending you so much love"
Coleen Nolan shared a broken heart emoji.
And Kate Thornton said: "Oh Ruth, I’m so sorry to hear that. Thoughts are with you and sending all my love"
Understandably, Ruth, 59, announced that she'll be cancelling all of her upcoming TV appearances as she grieves with her family.
The star usually presents This Morning on a Friday alongside her husband Eamonn Holmes, but it's likely he'll stay by her side tomorrow and not appear on the show either.
It's said that Julia was found dead at her home.
A source told The Sun: "Ruth is utterly heartbroken and devastated to have found out her beloved sister Julia has died.
"She adored Julia. They were very close – speaking all the time on the phone and enjoying girls’ days out.
"Julia had been unwell for quite some time but this has shaken Ruth to the core.
"Eammon and son Jack are comforting her at home but Ruth is in deep shock. It’s absolutely heartbreaking for the whole family."
Julia worked as a landscape gardener and lived in Surrey with her husband Paul and daughter Katie, 35.
She had suffered from depression for a number of years and had spoken about it publicly.
Julia said in an interview in 2010: "Ruth has been really supportive. I’d phone her in tears and go stay with her.
"She encourages me to have more confidence in myself and when I’m trying to do too much she has taught me to say no and look after myself a bit more. She’s the best sister anyone could have."
