COLEEN Nolan has described her sister Linda as a “beacon of love” after her tragic death was announced.

The devastated Loose Women star, 59, has released her own heartbreaking statement to fans after news of Linda’s passing broke.

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Coleen Nolan has released a statement after the death of Linda Nolan was announcedCredit: Rex

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Linda has sadly passed away after a cancer battleCredit: Rex Features
Coleen said on Instagram tonight: “I am utterly devastated by the passing of my sister, Linda.

“Linda was a beacon of love, kindness, and strength. Her wit, humour and laughter was infectious, her presence could light up any room.

“Linda had a heart full of compassion and always knew how to bring comfort and joy to those around her.

“Her memory will live on in the many lives she touched, and while we will miss her more than words can express, we take solace in the love and warmth she shared with all of us.”

Coleen signed off, saying: “Rest in peace, Linda. You will forever be in our hearts.”

Linda’s death from cancer at the age of 65 was confirmed earlier today.

The Nolans account posted a black and white photo of Linda, with a poignant caption that read: “It’s with great sadness that we announce the passing of beloved Linda Nolan.

“She faced incurable cancer with courage, grace & determination, inspiring millions. Surrounded by family, she passed peacefully.

“A pop icon and beacon of hope, Linda will never be forgotten.”

Linda passed away today with her famous sisters at her side, with her final hours said to have been full of “love and comfort”

In a statement released by her agent, Dermot McNamara, said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan, the celebrated Irish pop legend, television personality, Guinness World Record holding West End star, Sunday Times bestselling author and Daily Mirror columnist.

“She passed at around 10:20am at Blackpool Victoria Hospital on the MCEW Ward.

“The family said the hospital couldn’t do enough, they were tireless and made it so much more bearable.”

The statement continued: “She passed peacefully, with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments.

Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievements in music and entertainment.

“She was a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspire others.

“Rest in peace, Linda. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”

Last month, Linda appeared on ITV’s Loose Women where she revealed a severe fall left her with injuries as she faced ongoing chemo.

Linda, who had been battling this bout of cancer since 2017, fell in October suffering injuries including knocking some of her teeth out

The star also opened up about how she worried that her 60th birthday could be her last, but that she was “still here” five years later.

The sister of Loose Women star Coleen Nolan was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer in 2005 and given the all-clear the next year.

But in March 2017, she was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer which was identified after it spread to her hip, following a fall.

Heartbreakingly, the 65-year-old last year revealed her cancer had spread to her brain.

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The Nolans – Bernadette Nolan, Maureen, Linda and Coleen NolanCredit: Rex

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Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievements in music and entertainmentCredit: Rex Features

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Linda fell in October suffering injuries including knocking some of her teeth outCredit: Twitter