LINE Of Duty star Vicky McClure has shared a heartfelt tribute to her “hero granddad” following his sad death.
In an emotional statement, the actress has said she feels “grateful” for having such a wonderful grandfather during her life.
Vicky, 41, has shared some photographs of her war veteran ‘Grandad Ralph’ and told of his love for “football, gardening and his family”.
He passed away earlier today aged 99 – just two months shy of his 100th birthday.
Last year, Vicky starred in an emotional documentary called My Grandad’s War, which told of Ralph’s participation in the Second World War.
Vicky was reduced to tears as they stood on Sword beach where his tank landing craft came ashore on D-Day.
Writing on Instagram on Monday, Vicky confirmed that Ralph has passed away.
Alongside some pictures, she also posted a video of herself and Ralph singing You’ll Never Walk Alone together.
She wrote: “My Grandad Ralph peacefully passed away this morning
“His love for football, gardening and his family kept him young all these years.
“I feel so grateful having so many special memories with him.
“A much loved hero by all and a loving Grandad to all his grandkids and great grandkids.”
Vicky added: “Sleep well Grandad, back with Nana Jean now, giggling and dancing in the stars. xxx
“Ralph McClure – 1.2.25 – 2.12.24.”
Vicky has been inundated with messages of condolences from both her showbiz friends and fans.
Suranne Jones simply posted a red love heart and wrote: “Sending love.”
Paddy McGuinness, meanwhile, penned: “Cut from a different cloth that generation. Sending your family all my love.”
Alan Carr said: “Thinking of you Vicky .”
And Davina McCall, who is currently recovering from brain surgery, added:” I’m so sorry @vicky.mcclure . Bet you were so proud of him and him of you.”
Vicky McClure: My Grandad’s War aired in June 2023 and starred both Vicky and Ralph.
The documentary followed the actress as she tried to understand how her grandad found himself in the Royal Navy and at the centre of a world-changing battle on the Normandy beaches on June 6, 1944.
After learning about Ralph’s early life, they headed to Portsmouth where Ralph showed his granddaughter the ropes aboard one of the last remaining WWII landing craft.
Ralph then took Vicky back to Normandy, to the beach he last visited on D-Day 80 years ago.
Vicky told the camera: “Everyone that sees him. I mean, obviously, he’s got his medals on today, and he looks incredible.
“He looks beautiful. But they see him and they want to meet him and they want to shake his hand.”
In a sweet moment, Vicky then turned to him and declared: “I’m so proud of you, Grandad. I’m so grateful.”
