Shane Warne's family releases heartfelt tributes to 'the best father and mate'

The parents of cricket great Shane Warne say his sudden death in Thailand is a «never-ending nightmare» and «a tragedy we will never come to terms with». 

Keith and Brigitte Warne, along with other family members, released a statement today in the wake of Warne's death from a suspected heart attack in Koh Samui last Friday.

«To find words to adequately express our sadness is an impossible task for us and looking to a future without Shane is inconceivable, hopefully the mountain of happy memories we all have will help us cope with our ongoing grief,» they said in the statement.

They added that they had «gratefully accepted» the offer of a state funeral by Victorian Premier Dan Andrews.

«Brigitte and I are most grateful for the many messages of love and support received over the past few days and thank one and all for their kind words of comfort,» Keith Warne said.

Other Warne family members to share their comments included children Summer and Brooke and ex-wife Simone.

«I am going to miss you so much Dad and you were truly the best father and mate anyone could've asked for,» son Jackson said.

More to come.