Strictly’s Rev Richard Coles reveals heartbreaking loss in sad announcement

Rev Richard Coles took to Twitter to share the sad news that his civil partner Rev David Coles has died.

Rev Richard Coles uploaded a photo of the pair on Tuesday, alongside an emotional caption, which expressed thanks to those who cared for David whilst he was ill.

He wrote, ‘I’m very sorry to say that @RevDavidColes has died. He had been ill for a while. Thanks to the brilliant teams who looked after him at @KettGeneral.

He added a bible passage at the end, writing, ‘Funeral details to follow. “The Lord shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended”.’

Richard and David had been in a civil partnership since 2005, after the Church of England allowed it. The couple met when David went to hear Richard preach in Norwich.

The couple lived together in St Mary’s in Finedon, Northamptonshire, alongside their five daschund dogs. Richard frequently spoke about their life together on his BBC Radio 4 show.

In 2017, Rev Richard Coles told the Daily Mail that he’d planned to move away from their Northamptonshire home later in life.

He said at the time, “I'd like to retire and live in Scotland near the sea, with David and the dogs, never answer another email, and sort of pootle around. That's what I'd like to do. I want to look at the sea."

Since announcing the devastating news, Richard has received an outpouring of condolences and support from friends and colleagues on Twitter.

TV presenter Fern Britton wrote, ‘Dear Richard, I am so sorry to hear this sad news. David was funny and kind and a so lovely to spend time with. I am thinking of you and sending prayers. With my love Fern xxx’

His Strictly dance partner Dianne Buswell added, ‘Oh darling, I’m so sorry. Sending all my love xx’

And author Philip Pullman wrote, ‘Richard, I'm so sorry to hear that. You have all my sympathy.’