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Bimini Bon Boulash leads tributes to late Cherry Valentine

Cherry Valentine died aged 28 - Instagram credit:Bang Showbiz
Cherry Valentine died aged 28 - Instagram credit:Bang Showbiz

Cherry Valentine’s ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race UK’ co-star Bimini Bon Boulash has led tributes to the late star.

The drag queen - whose real name is George Ward - has been praised for her “infectious spirit” by Bimini, who also took part in the second season of the BBC Three show, after she passed away aged 28.

After hearing the tragic news, Bimini - whose real name is Tommy Hibbitts - wrote on Twitter: “At a loss for words. One of those souls so pure, so raw, so real. I’m incredibly lucky to have known George and witnessed their infectious spirit. Their patience and kindness was their superpower. They saw you for you and not many people have that empathetic trait. My heart [broken heart emoji] [cherry emoji]”

Cheryl Hole - real name Luke Underwood - lamented the world had “lost an incredible queen” as she expressed her sadness at losing her loved one.

She said: “I never thought I’d have to write something like this about such a talented and beautiful person that was Cherry. We have lost an incredible queen and I’m honestly devastated! RIP @TheCValentine I LOVE you [red heart emoji] [red rose emoji]. (sic)"

Sum Ting Wong posted: “Jesus f*** I’m actually crying.”

The drag performer - real name Bo Zeng - added in a follow up tweet: “My cab just stopped for a second at a sign pointing to “gypsy hill” and I started crying again ffs. Everyone check in on your friends and loved ones, you never when’s your last chance x. (sic)"

Pop star Self Esteem - real name Rebecca Lucy Taylor - tweeted: “RIP Cherry [red heart emoji]”

Tia Kofi - real name Laurence Bolton - was "completely devastated" to hear the shocking news about her pal and former co-star.

She tweeted: "Completely devastated and shook by the news about our friend Cherry. She was extremely kind, generous and talented. [cherry emoji] [red heart emoji]," before appealing for donations for her vigil and sharing a link.

George’s family admitted their lives will "never be the same” again following the star's passing.

They said: “It is with the most heart-wrenching and deepest sadness to inform you that our George – Cherry Valentine – has tragically passed away.

“This will come as a profound shock to most people and we understand there is no easy way for this to be announced.

“As his family, we are still processing his death and our lives will never be the same.

“We understand how much he is loved and how many lives he has inspired and touched. All we ask is for your patience and your prayers in this time. We love you Georgie.”