Emmerdale star Kathryn Apanowicz dies aged 64

The former TV presenter and actress died after a long illness.

The death of the actress was announced on Monday.

She passed away after a long illness.

Apanowicz was the partner of former Countdown host, Richard Whiteley, from 1994 until his untimely death due to heart complications in 2005.

Following his death, she released a book she released the book 'Richard by Kathryn: The Life of Richard Whiteley'.

In a social media tribute, Christa Ackroyd, former ITV Calendar presenter labelled Apanowicz a 'lovely friend'.

"Reunited with her beloved Richard. I will miss you so much my lovely friend. What adventures we had. The world will always be a duller place without you…"

The post was accompanied by an image of her and Kathryn, closing it out: "Thank you for the music my friend. RIP."

Ian White of ITV Calendar added to the array of tributes, saying: "Very sad news tonight about friend and former colleague Kathryn Apanowicz."

Aside from Emmerdale, Apanowicz also appeared in Eastenders, as well as being credit for her role in Bugsy Malone as a child and being a presenter on ITV's Live Talk.