Ricky Tomlinson has paid a heartfelt tribute to his 'Royle Family' co-star Caroline Aherne.

Caroline Aherne

Caroline Aherne

The writer and actress passed away yesterday (02.07.16) following a lengthy battle against lung cancer, and Ricky - who starred as Jim Royle in the popular BBC sitcom - has admitted he's been left reeling by the tragic news.

He shared: "I'm so bloody shocked. She was absolutely wonderful and amazing to work for. Kind, funny, witty.

"A true professional and one of the most generous people I ever worked with."

Ricky also revealed that despite her health woes, which included having previously fought bladder and eye cancer, Caroline "never once complained".

He told the Sunday Mirror newspaper: "She never talked about her health, ever. I can never ever remember her complaining.

"She must have gone through a lot but I never saw her looking unwell.

"She never flagged in work and the atmosphere when she was writing and acting was brilliant."

Caroline's death was announced yesterday by her publicist Neil Reading.

In a statement, he explained: "Caroline Aherne has sadly passed away, after a brave battle with cancer.

"The BAFTA award-winning writer and comedy actor died earlier today at her home in Timperley, Greater Manchester. She was 52."

As well as co-writing 'The Royle Family', Caroline starred as the acerbic chat show host Mrs Merton, while she also featured in various roles in the 'The Fast Show'.

Caroline won an array of gongs during her comedy career, including BAFTAs, a British Comedy Award and a Royal Television Society Award.

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