SAD NEWS: Carol Vorderman ‘in a state of shock’ as she shares tragic de@th statement
Carol Vorderman penned a heartbreaking tribute on Instagram
Carol Vorderman is mourning the loss of her long-time friend, entertainment publicist Neil Reading. Taking to Instagram on Tuesday, the Countdown star wrote: “One of the best, and a friend for many years, Neil Reading died this morning after an illness. Neil was the best press agent who everyone loved and respected. We worked together on so many projects over decades. And, we laughed, always laughed.
“To be honest, many of us are in a state of shock,” Carol continued. “Neil was a one off…I’ll miss our lunches so much, Neil, and I’ll miss your wisdom in the ‘never dull’ industry we found ourselves to be a part of.”
The late publicist, who also represented John Cleese, the late Victoria Wood, John Bishop, and Lenny Henry, was also the founder of Neil Reading PR. Neil, who passed away at the age of 56, is survived by his wife, Claire, and their daughter, Rosa.
Responding to Carol’s heartbreaking post, a number of stars have paid tribute in the comments. “Oh no, Neil. Gorgeous man. One of the kindest chaps. I’m so sorry, Carol. Please send my love to his dear ones. [I] will raise a glass to the skies to him tonight,” replied DJ Zoe Ball. “Oh nooo. I can’t believe it. This is so sad. I first met Neil in 2000, many fun memories,” wrote radio presenter Jenni Falconer.
John Bishop has also paid tribute (Image: Getty)
Dawn French, who worked with Neil, has released a statement of her own. “Neil Reading was a one-off, such a kind, decent, intelligent man, a proper gentleman in the old-fashioned way, quietly magnificent,” she said.
“Our work relationship became a very real and trusting friendship. He has been my ally and fierce protector through so much and for so long. I don’t quite know how I’ll manage without him. Sleep tight darlin’ heart.”
Following suit, John Bishop added: “Neil was a true gentleman. He was too humble to realise how much he meant to people and I know he will be greatly missed.”
