Drag Race UK queens pay heartfelt tribute to 'friend, artist and dear sister' Cherry Valentine

RuPaul's Drag Race UK stars, including Bimini, The Vivienne, Tia Kofi and many more, have paid tribute to season two contestant Cherry Valentine, who has tragically passed away.

Their family announced their death in a statement, saying: "This will come as a profound shock to most people and we understand there is no easy way for this to be announced. As his family we are still processing his death and our lives will never be the same.

"We understand how much he is loved and how many lives he has inspired and touched."

Cherry also appeared in the BBC documentary Gypsy Queen and Proud, discussing their roots in the traveller community.

After news of Cherry's death was made public on Friday (23 September), former contestants on the British spin-off of the franchise have shared their memories and condolences online.

https://twitter.com/dragraceukbbc/status/1573244375391404033

Season two runner up Bimini described Cherry as "so pure, so raw, so real".

https://twitter.com/biminibabes/status/1573247356132560897

More queens from Cherry Valentine's season have shared their gorgeous memories of Cherry, including Tia Kofi, Ellie Diamond, Joe Black, Ginny Lemon and A'Whora.

https://twitter.com/TiaKofi/status/1573246052781662208

https://twitter.com/elliediamond101/status/1573220468584218624

https://twitter.com/misterjoeblack/status/1573227891453829120

Ginny Lemon wrote that she was "devastated" and couldn't "stop crying", before posting an iconic photo of herself next to Cherry during season two's final episode.

https://twitter.com/GinnyLemon69/status/1573242875831324673

A'Whora posted on her Instagram story: "I cannot even begin to process todays news, I honestly have never been so heartbroken and In a state of shock so much!

"I've lost not only a sister but someone who for the last seven months had become my best friend, who I would call and text about everything and anything! We had so much planned and you had so much greatness ahead, and I know your legacy and talent will forever live on.

"I love you beyond words will ever understand! I will never stop being inspired by you and will continue to fight for your voice to be heard!

"I love you. RIP."

Other tributes have been paid by more contemporaries and fans of Cherry Valentine, including The Vivienne and various other Drag Race  alumni.

https://twitter.com/THEVIVIENNEUK/status/1573240368119832577

https://twitter.com/ItsVanityMilan/status/1573259237840789506

https://twitter.com/ElektraFence/status/1573243952454582272

https://twitter.com/crystalwillseeu/status/1573222452150341633

https://twitter.com/TheOnlyVinegar/status/1573249835238625280

[embed]https://twitter.com/CherylHoleQueen/status/1573216088153890817[/embed]