Caroline Aherne dies aged 52 after cancer battle

Actress Caroline Aherne has died at the age of 52 after a battle with cancer.

The star was best known for her work in The Royle Family, The Mrs Merton Show and The Fast Show.

Neil Reading, her publicist, said on Saturday: "Caroline Aherne has sadly passed away, after a brave battle with cancer.

"The Bafta award-winning writer and comedy actor died earlier today at her home in Timperley, Greater Manchester. She was 52.

"The family ask for privacy at this very sad time."