The Reverend Richard Coles has announced the death of his partner.
The former Strictly Come Dancing contestant, who was also in The Communards in the 1980s, shared the sad news that David Coles, 42, had died after a "long illness".
Sharing a picture of them together, the 57-year-old wrote: "I’m very sorry to say that @RevDavidColes has died. He had been ill for a while
"Thanks to the brilliant teams who looked after him at @KettGeneral . Funeral details to follow.
“The Lord shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended”."
The couple first met in 2007 when David approached Richard after he performed a sermon, and had been together ever since. They tied the knot in a civil partnership soon after, and have delighted followers online with tales of domestic life – as well as their family of dogs.
Friends have been paying tributes and sending their best wishes.
DJ Simon Mayo said: "What devastating news. So sorry to hear this Richard."
Television doctor Dr Christian Jessen said: "My love and thoughts are with you. Please please contact me if I can do anything for you."
Author Philip Pullman said: "Richard, I'm so sorry to hear that. You have all my sympathy."
