Amy Dowden has paid tribute to Britain's Got Talent star Kerri-Anne Donaldson who has tragically died aged 38. Kerri competed on BGT in 2014 alongside Strictly Come Dancing professionals Katya Jones, Neil Jones, and Kai Widdrington as part of the dance troupe Kings and Queens.
Caerphilly-born Amy took to Instagram to share a message about the young star, writing: "So shocked and sad. Such a beautiful dancer and kind soul! Sending love to all of your family and friends. Heaven has certainly gained an angel. Keep dancing up there lovely."
Neil Jones, 41, paid his own tribute and wrote to his 245k followers: "Kerri Anne Donaldson- remember that name and please never forget it because it belongs to a woman who loved to dance, create and perform, she had the cheekiest laugh and a heart of gold, she hated getting in the car with me, but would always listen to my crazy ideas, we shared so many moments and stories and she was always the voice of reason. Kerri you were my friend and like my big sister."
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It Takes Two presenter Janette Manrara commented on Neil's post, writing: "How sad to see this news. She was a such a lovely person. My hearts goes out to all her friends and family during this time."
"Heartbroken," Karen Hauer simply added. While Kevin Clifton shared his own post, including a series of childhood snaps of the pair together and wrote: "Absolutely heartbroken. I’ve known Kerri since we were kids and she was always the loveliest girl.
"A friend and a dance partner. I’m glad we got to dance together this xmas. And that the whole cast of Strictly Ballroom got to work with you in rehearsals. RIP."
The Supadance National League announced the sad news earlier today [Thursday, June 8].
Posting on Instagram next to a black and white photo of Kerri, they wrote: "The directors of the League are devastated to hear the extremely sad news of the passing of the daughter of their fellow directors Jacqui and Colin Donaldson principals at Diamond Dance centre and on behalf of all the schools in the League send love and prayers to them, their family and dance school!"
The Latin dance troupe Kings and Queens got to the semi-finals of Britain's Got Talent in 2014 but were voted out, while boy band Collabro went on to win that year. For more showbiz and television stories get our newsletter here.
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