Sweeney's 'love you always' tribute to ex Hatton

The pair competed on Dancing on Ice together in 2024

Soap star Claire Sweeney has said she "adored and cherished" her ex-boyfriend Ricky Hatton following his death, aged 46.

The Merseyside actress and former boxing champion were long-time friends and dated for several months after they competed on Dancing On Ice in 2024.

Sweeney wrote on Instagram: "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."

Sweeney added: "Ricky, you were the people's champ. We adored and cherished you. Love you always."

The pair dated for several months and then remained friends

She also posted a montage of photos of them together.

Sweeney and Hatton reportedly split up before Christmas 2024 but remained friends.

Greater Manchester Police said on Sunday that Hatton had been found dead at his home in Hyde, Greater Manchester.

The force said there were no suspicious circumstances.

In the wake of his death, tributes were paid from across the sporting world.

Frank Bruno, Amir Khan and Manny Pacquiao were among those to remember the former light welterweight and welterweight world champion.

A 10-bell salute was made in his honour at the eleventh day of the World Boxing Championships in Liverpool on Sunday, while a minute's applause was held before Sunday's Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium, in which Hatton's team secured a comprehensive 3-0 victory.