Tributes have been paid to comedian Gareth Richards, 41, whose death has been announced by his wife Laura. Richards was involved in a serious car crash on the M25 in late March and had been in a coma.
Laura Richards has issued the following statement: "It is with great sadness that I have to share that Gareth passed away on Friday 7th April (Good Friday) at 6.30pm.
He was in a terrible car accident on Monday March 27th at 11.30pm and sustained serious brain injuries. It was a miracle that he arrived at the hospital alive. Since then the doctors and nurses have been incredible and have kept him in a sedated and stable condition.
However the latest scan revealed that the extent of the damage was so severe that they would have to remove all of the supportive medications and allow him to be at peace. The boys are bearing up well.
There will be details of the funeral and other ways to remember Gareth to follow, as I know that he was well loved. At the moment the grief is a lot to cope with. Thank you all for your support and kindness.
Laura Richards."
Comedian Steve Bugeja echoed the thoughts of many when he tweeted: "Devastated to hear the news we’ve all been dreading. Gareth Richards was a fantastic comic, but also one of the kindest people in the industry. I did many a gig with him, and it was always an absolute pleasure on stage and off. You’ll be missed mate"
Angela Barnes tweeted: "The news we’ve all been dreading has come that @garethrichards has left us. He was so funny and, above all, so kind and gentle. Love and strength to his family and friends and his comedy family who are all reeling from this. Rest in peace Gareth xxx"
Vikki Stone added: "So sad to hear that Gareth Richards has died. He was such a lovely guy & great comedian. I always loved being on a line-up with him & his song “disappointing towel” never failed to make me laugh, no matter how many times I heard it."
Comedian Chris Martin (not the Coldplay singer) tweeted: ":Awful to hear about Gareth Richards passing. Like many he started stand up when I did & was so funny and quirky from the get go. What a talent & what a man. Truly one of the kindest, most gentle and sweetest people you're ever likely to meet. My love & thoughts with his family"
Tiffany Stevenson wrote: "I’ve just seen the update on Gareth Richards. He was funny, unique & a good dude. I have lots of nice memories of touring abroad together and watching him workshop new songs. Thinking of his family and his close ones right now. Many of them fellow comics. Devastating news"
Absolute Radio's Frank Skinner Show, whgere Ruchards was a co-host tweeted: "We are heartbroken about the loss of our dear friend, Gareth. We will miss him greatly. Tomorrow we will be releasing a podcast of some of his Best Bits on our show."
More here.
Watch Gareth Richards below
