Strictly’s Rev Richard Coles heartbroken as his partner David dies aged 42 after illness
STRICTLY star Rev Richard Coles has been left heartbroken after his partner David died aged 42 after a long illness.
Rev Coles announced the tragic news on Twitter, thanking hospital staff for caring for his long-term partner.
Richard Coles wrote: "I’m very sorry to say that @RevDavidColes has died.
"He had been ill for a while. Thanks to the brilliant teams who looked after him at @KettGeneral .
"Funeral details to follow."
He then included the Isaiah 60.20 passage: "The Lord shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended."
Rev Richard Coles, 57, is a Church of England priest and English musician who became a fan favourite on Strictly Come Dancing in 2017.
Strictly professional dancer Dianne Buswell, who was partnered with Richard in the 2017 series, tweeted: "I am so sorry to hear this . Sending all my love to you rev ! my prayers and thoughts are with you x"
Actor Kate Robbins, the mum of Emily Atack, added her "love and condolences" to the long list of tributes paid to David.
In his Twitter bio, David described himself as a "carer to FIVE delinquent yet delightful dachshunds. A dliettante potter, designer, gardener and narrow boat enthusiast."
He often shared posts about his love of cooking, and TV chef Mary Berry.
Rev Coles is most famous for being part of The Communards alongside Jimmy Somerville, who had been friends before joining the band.
He entered a partnership with David after the Church of England allowed it in 2005.
The couple had lived together in the vicarage of St Mary's in Finedon, Northamptonshire.
MOST READ IN NEWS
Rev Coles was born in Northampton in 1962 and went to Wellingborough School.
He studied Theology at Kings College London and went on to gain an MA from the University of Leeds.
He formed the band with Somervillein 1984 after Jimmy left Bronski Beat and the pair played together for three years.
