JOE Swash fought back tears in an emotional video tribute to Caroline Flack this evening.
The 38-year-old star was supported by girlfriend Stacey Solomon, who revealed that she was spending the evening with her family following the sad news.
Earlier today, it was confirmed that Caroline had taken her own life, aged 40.
In a statement, Caroline’s family said: “We can confirm that our Caroline passed away today on the 15th February.
“We would ask that the press both respect the privacy of the family at this difficult time.”
Joe grew close to Caroline when they were both presenters on I’m A Celeb’s spin-off show between 2009 and 2010.
Taking to his Instagram Story tonight, Joe’s voice cracked as he told his followers: “I want to send a message to everyone and let everyone know that Caroline Flack was the most amazing person you could ever come across.
“She was funny, super talented, and she had the most infectious laugh.”
Clearly overwhelmed with emotion, Joe continued: “I wish that she could have asked for help because there’s so many people that love her and I am going to miss her so much.
“We can’t let this happen, we can’t let this happen to anyone else.”
Earlier in the evening, Stacey had revealed that she was spending time with her loved ones as she wrote on her own social media page: “I’m going to come off of here for tonight.
“I’m going to spend some time reflecting on how lucky I am to have my family and remind myself that you NEVER truly know what’s going on in someone’s life.
“Kindness is EVERYTHING and it costs NOTHING. Sending so much love to you all, tonight and always.”
She went on to share a series of helplines for any of her followers who may be struggling.
Legions of Caroline’s famous pals have flocked to social media to share their sadness at her passing, with Love Island’s Iain Stirling and Laura Whitmore leading the heartfelt messages.
Caroline was due in court next month on charges of assaulting boyfriend Lewis Burton in December, having always insisted her innocence.
Model Lewis, 27, also denied the prosecution and made a public declaration of his love for the star in a heartfelt Valentines Day post just yesterday.
The ex tennis player was told the terrible news of Carolines death while on a skiing holiday with pals and was tonight travelling back to the UK.
Her managers publicly blasted the CPS after they continued to prosecute Caroline despite Lewis making clear he did not want them to and there being no serious injury.
In a passionate statement they said that the Crown Prosecution Service knew how “vulnerable” the star was, adding: “The CPS should look at themselves today and how they pursued a show trial that was not only without merit but not in the public interest and ultimately resulted in significant distress to Caroline.”
Tonight, Love Island cancelled their scheduled instalment of the show, with Unseen Bits supposed to air at 9pm this evening.
Instead, the channel aired a re-run of You’ve Been Framed.
ITV also paid tribute to Caroline in a heartfelt statement, which read: “Everybody at Love Island and ITV is shocked and saddened by this desperately sad news.
“Caroline was a much loved member of the Love Island team and our sincere thoughts and condolences are with her family and friends.”
If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call the Samaritans for free on16123
