'A huge hole in my world': Love Island star Amber Gill pays tribute to late 'best friend' as funeral is held

Roozbayani, who was also an influencer, died aged 41 earlier this month after being diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer diagnosis.

The star’s funeral was held earlier this week, and Gill was among the many attendees who wanted to pay their respects. After the service 27-year-old Gill, who won the fifth series of ITV 2 dating show Love Island in 2019, posted a tribute to her late best friend on her Instagram Stories.

Sharing a picture of the order of service, she wrote: "One of my bestest friends in the world (sic)" with a broken heart emoji. She added: "I usually keep my personal life relatively private. But this has left a huge hole in my world. Irene is one of my inner circle.

"One of very few people that knows every single thing about me. I don't even have any nice words because I'm still heartbroken. I'm not even sure if any of what I'm writing will make sense. We said our final goodbyes to Irene yesterday. I'm not sure if I'll ever recover. What a reality check to value the people you love whilst they are here."

She then shared a previous post from Roozbayani when she congratulated her for her Love Island win five years ago. Gill won the show alongside Greg O'Shea but they split a short time after leaving the famous villa.

Posting a selfie of herself and Gill, Roozbayani wrote at the time: "Never doubted your ability for a second.!!! You smashed it OUT OF THE PARK GIRL.!!!! So proud of you, you have been incredible!!!! Love you love you love you and huge congratulations!!!! #oncloudnineforyoubabygirl."

Roozbayani, who was from South Shields, Tyne and Wear, died on Thursday November 7 after a short battle with cancer. She worked for MAC before working at Charlotte Tilbury at Fenwick in Newcastle.

A tribute to Irene Roozbayani was posted on her Instagram which read: “Our darling Irene has gained her wings. After a courageous battle with cancer, Irene passed away peacefully this afternoon surrounded by her loved ones.

“Thank you to everyone who has been a part of Irene’s journey, she loved each one of you and would appreciate all of the love. Funeral arrangements will be posted on this page once confirmed. Sleep tight Roosy, we love you.”