An actress and model who starred in the likes of Coronation Street and Cold Feet has died aged just 39.
Her husband has now paid tribute to Melanie Hughes, calling her “kind and gentle”.
A mother-of-one young child, she was also a former Miss Wales – winning the title some 20 years ago.
Rick Hughes, 49, said the entire family had been left “absolutely devastated” following her sudden death on Sunday.
He said: “Mel was a lovely soul, she was kind and gentle. Mel was so kindhearted and had time for absolutely everyone.
“We are absolutely devastated at the loss of such a wonderful spirit and will never ever forget her.”
He also stated on social media that he was “struggling” to come to terms with her sudden passing. “So many pics, so many memories,” he added.
The couple have a three-year-old son, Kaden, while Mel was also stepmum to Rick’s 16-year-old daughter, Taylor.
Rick said Kaden “is asking where mummy is”.
“We had a holiday of a lifetime two months ago in Disney World Florida with my family and I am so glad we did as that has so many pictures with so many memories,” he explained.
Rick added that she “was better looking than all the Disney Princesses and she will always be my Miss Wales”.
The couple had married six years ago. As well as modelling, Ms Hughes had also featured in small parts in a number of popular TV series.
Her funeral takes place on Wednesday, October 18 at the church where she and Rick had exchanged wedding vows in the summer of 2011.
