Kym Marsh devastated over family member's death days after on-screen father dies

Kym Marsh is mourning the loss of her beloved cousin just days after the death of her on-screen father, Frank Grimes. The former Coronation Street star took to social media to pay tribute to her cousin Carl as the star said he would leave a "huge hole in our lives that will never be filled".

The 41-year-old actress wrote, "I can't believe I'm writing this. Today, our family says goodbye to Carl, my cousin. He was a legend to all who knew him. A light turned out far too soon. A huge hole in our lives that will never be filled. Sometimes life makes no sense. There are times when you just can't understand how such cruel things happen to good, honest people.

"This is one of those times. Carl was the kindest, funniest, most unique person I've ever known. The memories I have of us growing up, the camping holidays with the fam, the laughs, your silliness, your loyalty.

"You were one of a kind cuz, and I will miss you until the end of time. I wish I could be there today to say my final goodbye, but I know that you know how much I love you."

The star added: "And I know you would be telling me to stop being a silly a**e and stop crying, and that you would want me to be where I am doing what I'm doing. Doesn't stop me from wishing I was there, or thinking of my family today, or grieving, or wishing I could make this better for everyone.

Kym continued: "I know that the family will give you the best send off cuz and that they will do you proud. We will love you forever and always. Good night god bless my wonderful cousin. Sleep tight." She did not reveal how her cousin sadly died in the tribute.

His passing comes just days after Frank, who played Barry on Coronation Street, had died aged 78 following a short illness. He was Kym's character, Michelle O'Connor's on-screen father.

The actor died on August 1 surrounded by his loved ones, but the cause of death has not been announced. His death was announced by The Irish Cultural Centre in London, which issued a touching statement.

It read: "It's with deep sadness and heavy hearts that the ICC has to regretfully inform you that the great Irish actor FRANK GRIMES suddenly sadly passed away in the early hours of Friday morning, August 1st, after a very short illness, surrounded by his wife and family.

"Frank was undoubtedly one of Ireland's greatest actors, he was a dearly loved friend of the ICC's and over the past three decades, he trod the ICC's stage on so many occasions. Anyone who saw Frank perform his riveting self-penned production "the he and the she of it...A Portrait of James Joyce", will know what a thrilling, powerful, unforgettable performance it was!"