BGT star Ian Royce’s daughter thanks fans for ‘lovely messages’ after his death

The daughter of comedian Ian Royce has thanked fans for their support and “lovely messages”.

The funny man was the warm-up act for a number of ITV live shows, including juggernaut variety show Britain’s Got Talent.

The unexpected death of “Roycey” on September 1 from “severe pneumonia and multiple organ failure” has led to an outpouring of love for the star and now his daughter Roxanne has thanked fans for their messages.

Tweeting from Ian’s official Twitter account, his daughter Roxanne wrote: “I cannot thank everyone enough for all of their lovely messages and stories.

“It has been amazing to be able to read them all and get to know my dad through your eyes – my dad would have been ever so pleased. Roxanne x”.

The message of gratitude was greeted with further supportive comments for Roxanne and also positive stories about her father from celebrities and Ian’s followers.

Aled Jones replied to her post: “Roxanne I so feel for you – sending you all my love and you are in my thoughts. Your dad was a gem!”

Another person commented: “Roxanne your dad was so proud of you and your courage at his passing is amazing. I first watched him on Sky News paper review and followed him in Twitter for many years a lovely man with a lovely heart. He is now at peace. So sad. Be proud.”

Meanwhile, another fan of Ian’s recalled: “He was so kind to me when I lost my brother last year. He checked in on me frequently. I still can’t believe it. Sending you, as your dad would say, big love xxx”.

Elsewhere, a different “Roycey” follower replied to the tweet: “Such sad news, I worked with your dad after the London bombings for two weeks. He made a long and emotionally tiring couple of weeks bearable. Such a funny man!”

Finally, one concluded: “Roxanne your dad was a top bloke. Always looked after us and made us feel welcome. He always spoke proudly about you. My dad was really upset at your news. He sat telling me some stories about the cruises they were on. He will be sadly missed xx”.

It’s clear Ian will be dearly missed by many.

Announcing Ian’s death through his personal Twitter account, Roxanne wrote on Tuesday: “It is with our greatest regret that we have to tell you all that Ian has passed away today from severe pneumonia and multiple organ failure.

“He was in no pain and was surrounded by friends and family. He put up a good fight but is in a better place now. Roxanne x”.

Britain’s Got Talent returns on Saturday night on ITV.

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