Devastating.

Rachel Stevens has broken her silence following the tragic death of her S Club 7 bandmate Paul Cattermole, remembering him as a "sensitive soul" and has thanked fans for their support. Paul sadly died at the age of 46 on Thursday, with the band confirming his death on Friday. The cause of death has yet to be disclosed and police in the UK are not treating it as suspicious. Paul's death comes ahead of the group's much-anticipated reunion tour, which is set to go ahead in his memory. Rachel has now shared a tribute to her late bandmate, saying that she hopes he knew how much people cared for him before he passed. "I hope he knew how loved he was. Such a kind, gentle and sensitive soul with the most incredible energy and such a wild free spirit," she wrote to her followers. "He would light up any room. We are heartbroken but so grateful for the memories we all shared. An absolute shining star who we will love and miss always." She continued: "Thank you so much for all your beautiful messages of love and support, The outpouring of love for our Paul has been so incredibly special and has meant so much." Announcing the sad news on social media, S Club 7 wrote: "It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of our beloved son and brother Paul Cattermole. Paul was found yesterday, 6 April 2023, at his home in Dorset and was pronounced dead later that afternoon." Other members of the band have also paid tribute, with Jo O'Meara writing: "I just wanted to reach out and Thank everybody from the bottom of my heart for the love and kindness you have shown over the tragic passing of our sweetest soul Paul. "This has been utterly devastating, and I am totally shocked and heartbroken." Jo remembered Paul as "incredibly special" and said he had the "sweetest soul". "We have lost someone so incredibly special to us all. "There is a huge sense of sadness that will never go," she continued. "Paul will forever be a huge part of our lives." "I will forever treasure the memories we made! I will love you always Paul, God bless you my darling, Rest in forever peace, Love JoJo."

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