Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Entertainment
Ryan Paton

BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Shirley Ballas issues plea after tragic loss

Strictly Come Dancing's Shirley Ballas has issued a plea as she opened up on her brother's tragic death.

The head judge from Wallasey is an ambassador for the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) as her brother, David Rich, took his own life in 2003 at the age of 44. Today marks the anniversary of her brother's death and she has taken to Instagram to urge anyone suffering to get in touch with CALM.

She said: "On the 5th of December all those years ago. My dear brother decided to take his own life. To this day I’ll never be free of “What could I have done more”.

READ MORE: Carol Vorderman drops television commitments as she issues health update

"Dearest David time goes so fast where have the years gone, you are missed on a daily basis. Talked about often and never forgotten. We celebrated your life yesterday, your daughter Mary, your mum and me. Still so difficult that you are not here. But I’m sure you would be so proud of Mary in so many ways.

"I’ll continue to work for @calmzone to help others like you a constant reminder to always watch out for those who are feeling low. Love you so much David you are always in our hearts. Continue to R.I.P."

She added: "Any one out there with thoughts of loneliness or any other dark thoughts please reach out #calm to all, let’s be vigilant on checking in on our loved ones and friends this December and always. #suicide #suicideprevention #family #brother #son #uncle #dad you are loved."

Fans flooded the comments to issue messages of support after the update.

Deborah said: " Thinking of you all."

Jo added: "Thinking of you"

Matt commented : "Thinking of you today, sharing your memories of your brother"

You can find out about mental health support services near you on the NHS website. The Samaritans helpline is avilable 24/7 on 116123.

Receive newsletters with the biggest and breaking TV and showbiz news by signing up here

For more celeb news, videos and pictures follow our designated Facebook page HERE

Full list of 30 freebies and discounts for DWP Universal Credit claimants

Christine McGuinness addresses weight loss after slew of messages from fans

Rylan Clark praised for honest admission on ITV's This Morning

I'm a Celebrity's Boy George to receive even bigger paycheque than expected from show

Martin Lewis issues urgent message to households earning less than £40,000

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.