"She has left the biggest hole in all of our hearts"

One half of the viral Jess and Norma partnership - alongside granddaughter Jessica Asquith - she was 91 years old.

The news of her death was shared via their Instagram page yesterday (June 9) in a statement, with Jess writing: "5/06/2025 the day our family lost our rock, our everything, our beautiful, precious, perfect lady. We are all truly devastated and our lives will never be the same.

"We want you all to know that Nan fell to sleep peacefully, surrounded by all her family, she was full of love and had the most beautiful care. If anyone deserves a place in heaven, it's you Nanny Norma. Social media and our community online made Nan's last years so incredibly special, her cup was full and in her own words she 'lived such a wonderful life.'

"91 years was never going to be enough and she has left the biggest hole in all of our hearts. Reunited with her husband and family, until we meet again, our queen [broken heart emoji]."

Plenty of tributes have since flown in, including from the ITV soap Emmerdale of which Norma was a lifelong fan.

Together with social worker Jess, she was invited to an Emmerdale experience last year to commemorate its 10,000th episode.

"We are so so sorry to read this. Norma was such a shining star who brought so much joy and happiness to so many people. Sending love to all of the family," the soap's social media team responded.

Meanwhile, a handful of Coronation Street cast members wanted to pass on their condolences too.

Bethany Platt star Lucy Fallon wrote: "Oh Jess, I am absolutely heartbroken for you all. She was a gorgeous lady and it was a privilege to meet you both. Sending you lots of love," while Tina O'Brien (known for playing Sarah Platt) added: "Oh Jess, I'm so sorry, Norma brought so much love and happiness to everyone. I can't imagine how you all must be feeling. Sending you and your family so much love and strength and thinking of you lots."

Norma died a month before their book Jess and Norma: A Lifetime of Laughter and Our Unbreakable Bond is due to be released.