Coronation Street star Luke Delaney has opened up about his shock at being woken up with some distressing news.
The muscly actor said he has been left devasted after his friend and training buddy Neil tragically died.
He said Neil's death was sudden and he just wanted to give him "a hug" in a heartbreaking post on Instagram.
The star, who appeared in the ITV soap as extremist Dave Fairchild earlier this year, shared an emotional tribute to the fellow gym enthusiast alongside a photo of them together, and a video of a smiling Neil greeting him with a pint in each hand.
Luke described the moment he discovered his pal's death, writing: "Babe, I’ve got some sad news … it’s your friend, Neil.
"The first words I heard this morning. And I just knew. How is it that in that moment, we know?
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"But in the moments leading up to it, you can have absolutely no idea what someone is going through. I know you had your demons.
"But I don’t think I was ever in a room with you where you weren’t smiling, being a joker & making people laugh.
"I’d give everything for one more training session. To come down from my hotel room post show and see that smile and 2 pints waiting
"To give you a hug and tell you how much you were loved. I’m going to miss you big bro.
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"I hope you’ve found your peace."
His post sparked an outpouring of support from followers who shared their sympathies.
One commented: "Remember the good times bruv. We had a more father son relationship. The world seems a pretty quiet place today."
A second person said: "Wandered when we'd see vour post brother ? I am sorry for your loss, yours and many others who had a close friendship with Neil. It is so sad.
"Another huge personality and exceptionally talented young man gone. Sending love and condolences."
And one more said: "Never met Neil, but did exchange comments etc on Instagram and yeah he was always responsive and a decent human being. No matter what happened he is a massive loss first and foremost to his loved ones."
Luke's other acting credits include Hollyoaks and Emmerdale.
He launched Train with Luke earlier this year after leaving Corrie.
You’re Not Alone
EVERY 90 minutes in the UK a life is lost to suicide.
It doesn't discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society – from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers.
It's the biggest killer of people under the age of 35, more deadly than cancer and car crashes.
And men are three times more likely to take their own life than women.
Yet it's rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now.
That is why The Sun launched the You're Not Alone campaign.
The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives.
Let's all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others… You're Not Alone.
If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support:
- CALM, www.thecalmzone.net, 0800 585 858
- Heads Together, www.headstogether.org.uk
- Mind, www.mind.org.uk, 0300 123 3393
- Papyrus, www.papyrus-uk.org, 0800 068 41 41
- Samaritans, www.samaritans.org, 116 123
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- Anxiety UK www.anxietyuk.org.uk, 03444 775 774 Monday-Friday 9.30am-10pm, Saturday/Sunday 10am-8pm
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