Love Island’s Iain Stirling shares ‘favourite moment’ of Sophie Gradon in tribute to the star

Love Island’s Iain Stirling has shared his “favourite moment” of Sophie Gradon in tribute to the late star.

Geordie reality star Gradon appeared on the second series of the ITV2 show back in 2016.

Her boyfriend announced the news of her death on Facebook, where he paid tribute to his “baby”.

Alongside a picture of the pair, he posted: “I will never forget that smile I love you so so much baby your my world forever ever and always.”

Voiceover talent Stirling posted a clip of Gradon delivering a passionate speech in defence of co-star Zara Holland.

Gradon spoke out after Holland was stripped of her Miss Great Britain title during the series for having sex on camera.

The clip on Stirling’s Twitter showed Gradon highlighting the importance of women not being judged.

In the video of Gradon speaking to her fellow islanders, she said: “Life shouldn't be about judging one another. Say for example, judging a young woman for enjoying herself.

“A young woman who hasn't harmed anyone, but a woman who has faced a torrent of judgemental and closed minded opinions since leaving Love Island.

“As an ex Miss Newcastle and Miss GB, I can say that it's time people moved forward from their old-fashioned thinking and accepted the simple fact that women like to have sex.”

Stirling captioned the post: “This will forever remain on of my favourite Love Island moments. Dearest Sophie, I truly hope you are now at peace. Stay shapey x”

Olivia Buckland, who starred alongside Gradon on the ITV2 series, and Salmon both paid tribute on Twitter.

In an emotional message Salmon said she has been left “heartbroken” while Buckland posted: “You helped us through so much. Your smile was one in a million.

“The world failed. I send all my love and my thoughts to you today. To your family and your loved ones. I cannot work out what to say.

“RIP you beautiful beautiful woman. I’m so lucky to have met you. #stayshapey.”