Jane McDonald, 58, has returned to Instagram today after a prolonged break on the social media platform, following the death of her long-term partner Eddie Rothe. The Loose Women star thanked fans for all their “wonderful cards and messages” since the “awful news”.
Jane typed: “I want to thank everyone most sincerely for the wonderful cards and messages of support that I have received since the awful news was announced that I had lost my beloved Ed.
“I’m so touched by each and every one. All the kind thoughts and words have meant so much to me and many of you have let me know that you are going through the same thing as me having lost loved ones and I wish you all love and strength back.
“I’m hugely grateful for everyone who very kindly donated to the Just Giving page for Wakefield Hospice in Ed’s memory.
“It’s been a tough time for us all recently and I know that better days are ahead,” she added.
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Speaking to The Mirror in her first interview since his death, Jane revealed how what had happened had made her realise how precious life is.
She explained: “If we know anything about what has happened in this past year, it’s that life is too short.
“This has taught me that life is for living and I will live it, even more, when we are allowed out again.”
The Loose Women star and musician Eddie first met in 1980, when she was just 17.
The couple dated for six months before splitting up and moving on with their lives.
Speaking about how they first met, Jane explained: “We’d first met in the 80s when I was waitressing at a Wakefield nightclub.
“Disco group, Liquid Gold were playing. The drummer, Wal, asked if we could have a drink. He was tall, blond and built like a god. We hit it off and started going out.”
The young couple broke up when Jane decided to pursue a career singing on cruises before they reunited decades later.
