Strictly star Gemma Atkinson, 39, has been left heartbroken over the death of family member who ‘changed her life’ as she announces her beloved dog has passed away..

Strictly star Gemma Atkinson, 39, has been left heartbroken over the death of family member who ‘changed her life’ as she announces her beloved dog has passed away.

Gemma Atkinson has revealed the heartbreaking news that her beloved dog has passed away, describing saying goodbye to her pet as the “hardest decision of her life”.

The ex-Hollyoaks actress shared a touching tribute alongside a video of her pooch Norman. She penned: “My beautiful boy Norman has passed away. My heart is broken. 12 years ago I made a promise to him that i would always take care of him and never allow him be in pain or to suffer. Had I put off making the hardest decision of my life any longer I would have broken that promise

“It’s hard to express how much Norman transformed my life for the better. Simply by just being there. Through all the ups and downs over the last 12 years, he’s been there with Ollie, making everything ok. My favourite weekends were spent on long walks exploring together, then home to snuggle in bed with them both watching a film while they peacefully snoozed.”

Gemma continued: “I think I’ll miss that the most…That and the fact Norm was always the only one in the whole house to get up and come downstairs with me in the mornings no matter how early it was. My 5am club won’t be the same without his company. He was my first experience of being a mum and having someone other than myself to care for. He’s taught me a lot.

“Mainly to always live in the moment, remain positive and to keep trying. He never stopped trying to just get up and please me. Even at the end. He was the most gentle and caring soul combined with fierce love and loyalty to his family, his pack.”