Zoe Ball has announced her mother has died after battling pancreatic cancer.
The BBC 2 Radio presenter revealed the news on social media, posting a picture of her late mother Julia Peckham, adding that she was “bereft” following the death.
Ball had previously taken a hiatus from her show to care for her mum, who was recently admitted to a hospice.
The presenter posted a photo of her mother on Instagram from when she was young with the caption: “Sleep tight dear Mama.
“Thank you for teaching us how to love unconditionally, to always show courage and empathy, and how, even in the darkest of days, laughter is the greatest of gifts.
“We are bereft without you but will hold so tight to each other.
“Your grace and your smile that lit up every room you were in, will light the stars to guide us.”
Support came flooding in for Ball following the post. Her ex-partner Michael Reed wrote beneath the post: “Julia, you're going to be so missed, rest now beautiful one, you're home with Rick.”
The model added: “My Heart to you Zoe and crew.”
Ball’s BBC colleague Emma Barnett posted: “May her memory be a blessing. I’m sorry.”
Soccer Saturday presenter Simon Thomas added: “’I’m so so sorry Zoe. Even though we know this day will one day come, nothing prepares you for when this day sadly comes.
“It’s impossibly hard. Lots of love to you and your family & you dear Dad.”
Last month Ball disclosed that Julia’s cancer had progressed significantly, and the family was prioritising creating lasting memories together.
Recently, she announced that Julia had been transitioned to a hospice setting, describing the process as "gentle".
The broadcaster's son Woody Cook, who she shares with ex-husband Norman Cook better known as British DJ Fatboy Slim, also shared a tribute on Instagram.
"Today I say goodbye to Granny J, thank you for being a wonderful woman," the 23-year-old said, sharing a younger picture with his grandmother.
Cook, who appeared on Netflix reality series The Circle in 2019, also referenced his grandmother's late husband Rick Peckham.
He said: "The only person who always sent me a valentines card. I know you're with Rick now, give him a hug from me.
"I know he said once when you were panicking in a helicopter over the Jungle 'If you get lost, follow the river!' You'll find him at the end."
After sharing her mother's diagnosis, it was announced that Gaby Roslin would fill in whenever Ball required time off.
