Bernie Nolan of 80s girl group The Nolans has passed away aged 52 after a lengthy battle with cancer.

She had been suffering from breast cancer since 2010 and undergone chemotherapy and a mastectomy before going into remission. Sadly, it was announced that the disease had returned in October of last year and had spread to her brain, bones, liver and lungs.

Bernie found fame in the 80s with her sisters Coleen, Maureen and Linda as part of the Nolans before going on to star in Brookside and The Bill.

A spokesperson representing the Nolan family said: “Bernie passed away peacefully this morning with all of her family around her. The entire family are devastated to have lost beloved Bernie, a wonderful wife, adoring mother and loving sister. She is irreplaceable. They kindly ask people to respect their privacy at this difficult time.”

Tributes have been flooding in from fellow 80s stars over social media sites.

Jason Donovan said: “Peace and love to Bernie Nolan.”

Spandau Ballet’s Martin Kemp said: “RIP Bernie Nolan, thinking of you and all your family and friends today. Love to you all Mx.”