Claire Sweeney has shared a sweet tribute to former boxer Ricky Hatton on his first birthday since his death.
The former world champion was found dead in his Greater Manchester home last month aged 46, with the police saying at the time that there was no suspicious circumstances regarding his death. His passing has led to an outpouring of grief and tributes from former boxers, including Manny Pacquiao who fought Hatton in 2009.
Hatton and Sweeney were long time friends who also dated for several months after they competed on Dancing on Ice last year. Despite splitting up last Christmas, the pair remained close friends.
Paying tribute to Hatton at the time, Coronation Street star Sweeney wrote: "I've needed a few days to process the devastating news about my dear friend Ricky".
"My thoughts are with his family especially his children Campbell, Millie Fearne and Lyla, his granddaughter", she added. "To them, Speaky (Ricky Hatton's manager Paul Speak) and to all his friends who loved him so deeply and for so many years I send you my deepest sympathy".
"Ricky, you were the people's champ. We adored and cherished you. Love you always".
Over the weekend, Claire Sweeney celebrated the occasion with her family, posting a video of her son Jaxon while out shopping.
Showing that Ricky is never too far away from her thoughts, Sweeney shared a post of Jaxon as he picked out an Only Fools and Horse figurine, with the actress cutely telling her son that "Ricky would love that".
Sweeney also shared a photo of Hatton on her Instagram stories, with the caption Happy Birthday, along with a prayer and heart emoji.
