LORRAINE Kelly broke down in tears over Dame Deborah James's death.
The presenter – who was close friends with Deborah – played out a special tribute to the 40-year-old star who died yesterday.
Lorraine had tears in her eyes after the film had finished playing.
As she introduced her next guest, Lorraine's voice broke and she started to cry.
She told viewers: "I'm sorry, just saying that. It sort of hits you, it does."
Lorraine added: "We knew this was going to happen, but it still doesn't feel quite real."
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Mum-of-two Deborah, known as BowelBabe to her legions of Instagram fans, was diagnosed with incurable bowel cancer just days before Christmas in 2016, at the age of 35.
Despite being told she had an eight per cent chance of living five years, Deborah defied the odds stacked against her.
After celebrating her 40th birthday last October – a birthday she never dreamed she would live to see – the brave campaigner marked the five-year milestone a few months later.
In the five-and-a-half years since her diagnosis Deborah changed the conversation around bowel cancer, raising vital awareness and breaking down taboos.
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After learning last month she would receive end-of-life hospice care, she began fundraising in earnest – with the total now topping an astonishing £6.7million.
Her legions of fans around the country learned of her death in an Instagram post shared from her account last night.
It reads: “We are deeply saddened to announce the death of Dame Deborah James; the most amazing wife, daughter, sister, mummy. Deborah passed away peacefully today, surrounded by her family.
“Deborah, who many of you will know as Bowelbabe, was an inspiration and we are incredibly proud of her and her work and commitment to charitable campaigning, fundraising and her endless efforts to raise awareness of cancer that touched so many lives.
“Deborah shared her experience with the world to raise awareness, break down barriers, challenge taboos and change the conversation around cancer. Even in her most challenging moments, her determination to raise money and awareness was inspiring.
“We thank you for giving us time in private as a family, and we look forward to continuing Deborah’s legacy long into the future through the @bowelbabefund
“Thank you for playing your part in her journey, you are all incredible."
She penned a final missive to supporters before her death. Her words were shared in the Instagram post tonight.
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“Find a life worth enjoying; take risks; love deeply; have no regrets; and always, always have rebellious hope," she said.
“And finally, check your poo – it could just save your life.”
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