Laura Whitmore pays tribute after friend dies of cancer (Picture:Getty/ koedina/Instagram)

Laura Whitmore has expressed her devastation following the death of her friend, photographer Jay McLaughlin, who died aged 43 after suffering from cancer.

McLaughlin was a fashion photographer who had been documenting his journey on Instagram after being diagnosed with stage-four cancer, which impacted his bowel, liver and lungs.

Six days ago, his partner Edina shared on social media that he was receiving end of life care in a hospice, while also revealing that they were able to get married as it was his ‘biggest wish’.

In a post shared on Instagram on Thursday July 20, Edina confirmed that McLaughlin had died on Wednesday.

The late photographer was a huge fan of Star Wars, which Edina referenced in her tribute as she wrote: ‘Our brave and incredible Jay passed away peacefully tonight at St. Joseph’s Hospice and he is now in a galaxy far, far away.’

She continued: ‘We don’t really have the words right now, but we know how incredibly loved he was by all of you.

The most amazing husband, son, brother and friend. Never giving up and fighting till the end, never lost his zest for life and sense of humor. Our love for him will never die and we will miss him everyday for the rest of our lives.

‘May the force be with you always our love Jay! 🤍.’

In a post shared on her Instagram page, Whitmore wrote that while those close to McLaughlin had been ‘preparing’ for his death, ‘you never fully comprehend it’.

‘I’ve spoken a lot about my friend @jaymclaughlin_irl a very talented photographer and his account @jaymclaughlin_irl documenting his life with stage 4 cancer,’ the 38-year-old penned.

‘Sadly we have lost Jay. We had been preparing ourselves for the worst but you never fully comprehend it. He’s been part of and taken photos of so many stages of my life – shoots, BTS, headshots, birthdays.. not to mention our shared love of Star Wars.

‘I know he was in a lot of pain near the end so I hope he is free of the restraints that his body had on him. Rest in power, he was a force who I am eternally grateful to have known❤️.’

Singer Alexandra Burke shared her condolences to Edina on the post announcing his death, commenting: ‘I’m just so sorry…. I’m lost for words. A gentle soul who gave so much. I will cherish my memories with the wonderful Jay.

‘Clearly loved by so many people. Sending you love and light Edina, to you and the family. He will be missed ❤️❤️❤️ praying for you all x.’

Host of the BBC podcast You, Me and the Big C Lauren Mahon wrote: ‘Our hearts 💔. Sending all Jay’s family and friends so much love at this horrific time. I don’t think I’ve allowed myself to believe this would happen and I don’t think I ever will. Jay I love you. Very very much. ❤️.’

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‘We had been preparing ourselves for the worst but you never fully comprehend it,’ Laura wrote.