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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Rebecca Calderwood

Strictly's Bill Bailey pays tribute to Sean Lock on first anniversary of death

Bill Bailey has paid a touching tribute to late comedian and friend Sean Lock - one year after his tragic death.

The legendary comic died last August at the age of 58 after a secret battle with lung cancer.

Marking a year since his passing, Bill - who worked alongside Sean during his career - shared a special message in honour of the day.

The Strictly winner, 57, also revealed his incredible fundraising efforts after walking 100 miles in memory of his late friend.

Taking to Instagram, Bill shared: "Today will be one year since we lost the brilliant comedian and my dear friend Sean Lock. With his family and friends we’ve just completed a 100 mile walk on Sean’s memory, and to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

"The JustGiving page is still up, so if you can donate anything that would be hugely appreciated. justgiving.com/walkforseanlock @macmillancancer. Thanks!"

Bill accompanied the post with a photo of a backpack featuring a picture of Sean's face.

Fans rushed to show their support to Bill, with one saying: "Such an achievement Bill and friends. Sean was my favourite comedian and his loss is still so sad to me."

Another added: "How amazing. I miss him so much."

A third wrote: "Great tribute. Can’t believe it’s been a year."

Bill completed a 100 mile walk in Sean's memory (Instagram/billbaileyofficial)
Sean passed away following a battle with cancer (Getty Images)

While a fourth commented: "So sadly missed. This is such a lovely idea."

Following Sean's death, his agent Off The Kerb Productions released a statement.

"It is with great sadness that we have to announce the death of Sean Lock," they wrote. "He died at home from cancer, surrounded by his family.

"Sean was one of Britain’s finest comedians, his boundless creativity, lightning wit and the absurdist brilliance of his work, marked him out as a unique voice in British comedy.

"Sean was also a cherished husband and father to three children. Sean will be sorely missed by all that knew him.

Bill shared a close bond with the late comic (ITV)

"We kindly request that the privacy of his family and children is respected at this difficult time."

At the time, Bill went on the confirm that Sean passed away after a secret battle with lung cancer.

Bill told ITV News : "He had been diagnosed with lung cancer a few years ago and it was at the time quite a blow, particularly when it was quite advanced. We've tried to make the most of the last few years.

"We spent a lot of time together and went on trips together. And he's continued to work. He's amazingly courageous and tough individual who was mentally strong throughout the whole time. I'm just grateful for the time we have had together."

He added: "A lot of comics are talking about the fact that he inspired them to become comedians. He was the one that gave them the strength and courage to carry on as comedians - it's a tough business. He was fearless and determined and that's what gave them strength."

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