Mum of Deborah James says her 'heart is broken' as tributes continue to flood in

The devastated mum of Dame Deborah James has said her 'heart is broken' following her daughter's death at the age of just 40.

The cancer campaigner and podcaster, who was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2016, tragically died on Tuesday. Her family announced her death in a statement on Instagram and said she passed away peacefully surrounded by her loved ones.

Deborah - also known as Bowel Babe - spent her final weeks receiving end-of-life care at home with her husband, Sebastien, and their two children. She raised millions of pounds for cancer research and was made a dame for her 'tireless' work improving awareness of the disease.

READ MORE:'Take risks, love deeply and have no regrets' - Dame Deborah James' inspiring final message

Last night, Deborah's mum Heather paid a touching tribute to her daughter on social media. On her Instagram account, which has the handle Bowel Gran, she shared a picture of Deborah and wrote: "My heart is broken."

On another post she then added: "Love you forever." Heather also shared their family statement following Deborah's death.

The statement in full said: "Dame Deborah James. We are deeply saddened to announce the death of Dame Deborah James; the most amazing wife, daughter, sister, mummy. Deborah passed away peacefully today, surrounded by her family.

"Deborah, who many of you will know as Bowelbabe, was an inspiration and we are incredibly proud of her and her work and commitment to charitable campaigning, fundraising and her endless efforts to raise awareness of cancer that touched so many lives. Deborah shared her experience with the world to raise awareness, break down barriers, challenge taboos and change the conversation around cancer. Even in her most challenging moments, her