This Morning star Juliet Sear has been inundated with supportive messages after making a heartbreaking announcement. Taking to Instagram, the baker shared the news that her father had "unexpectedly" passed away. Juliet, 52, described her father as a "brilliant engineer" who was "generous" and had a great sense of humour.

She penned: "He’s always been there for us and especially for me. By my side from helping me every day when I had baby George and couldn’t cope, to helping in my bakery every day. The Sunday Times bestselling author opened up about their close bond, adding: "We were there for each other constantly everyday whether it was on FaceTime (thankfully he was good with his iPad!). Or me doing his weekly Ocado, even though he could do it himself."

"He liked to do it together just to talk. Even though he would drive me nuts sometimes. I could tell he was fully aware of what was in stock and would get me to check on FaceTime together! Simon Sear and I will miss him terribly I can’t believe it."

Juliet concluded the post: "He was absolutely devoted to our kids George, Lydia and ruby I am sure our brother Phillip will be saving you a bar stool in heaven, Dad, squashy bondger! Xxx."

Alice Beer penned: "Oh Juliet what a great hollow you must have in your heart. Sending you love but keep doing what you do in his name."

"Oh darling. I’m so so sorry. Love and strength to you all at this sad time," Lisa Snowdon commented while Kate Lawler added: "Oh my love I’m so, so sorry."

Former This Morning host Ruth Langsford shared: "I’m so sorry for your loss Juliet…your Dad was obviously a wonderful man.

“Words feel empty at a time like this but hold your memories of him close… those can never be taken away from you. Love to you and the family."

Juliet has been This Morning's resident baking expert since 2017 and has written six books on baking.