Justin Moorhouse has announced the death of his son, Barney. The Phoenix Nights star, from Ashton-under-Lyne, took to Instagram to share the heartbreaking news on Saturday.

Sharing a snap of Barney, he said: "It is with the heaviest of hearts I have to tell you our beautiful boy Barney has passed away. Me, his mum and step mum, his sister, cousins, aunts and uncles, grandparents and his gorgeous friends are besides ourselves with grief.

"I am consoling myself as much as I can knowing that he loved us all and knew we loved him. He was so happy, content and excited about the future. The sweetest, kindest soul.

"He just went to sleep and didn't wake up. I can't imagine how the next days and weeks will unfold but I know we are able to cope - love always helps. I am him and he is me. Sleep tight Barney. Dad. x Appreciate your kindness and sensitivity towards the family at this time." Justin's daughter, Isobel said: "The best big brother."

Tributes have since flooded in on social media, with John Bishop saying: "Justin this is so heartbreaking. I remember the kind fun little boy who grew to be a man to be proud of . There are no words. All of our love goes out to all of you at this time."

Sacha Lord added: "I’m so so sorry. During his time at WHP he was a kind, gentle, funny soul. My love and thoughts to Barneys family and friends. I’m in shock."

Former Coronation Street actress Kimberly Hart-Simpson penned: "This is incredibly sad. You will be in my thoughts." Journalist Nooruddean Choudry commented: "That thing about knowing he was loved is everything mate. May we all live our lives knowing we were loved, just as Barney did. Top guy. He was and is a credit to you and your beautiful family x."

Comedian and actress Jessica Fostekew said: "Oh Justin. I can’t begin to imagine the agony you must be in - sending you all the love and strength in the world . I’m so so so sorry."

Justin's Looking for Eric co-star, Steve Evets penned: "Justin, my heart goes out to you and all your family and friends of Barney. I can never imagine the grief you all must be in right now and I know my words are meaningless to you all but please take my best wishes to you all at this terrible loss."