S Club 7 member Jo O'Meara has broken her silence after the sudden passing of Paul Cattermole, making her the first out of the 90s pop group to speak about the devastating loss.
On Friday (7 April), Paul's family announced that he had tragically died at the very young age of 46.
The statement from Cattermole’s family and S Club 7 said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of our beloved son and brother Paul Cattermole.
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“Paul was found yesterday, 6th April 2023 at his home in Dorset and was pronounced dead later that afternoon.
“While the cause of death is currently unknown, Dorset Police has confirmed that there were no suspicious circumstances. Paul’s family, friends and fellow members of S Club request privacy at this time.”
Meanwhile, a separate statement from the band came shorty after, who were understandably devastated by the unexpected loss.
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It read: “We are truly devastated by the passing of our brother Paul. There are no words to describe the deep sadness and loss we all feel.
“We were so lucky to have had him in our lives and are thankful for the amazing memories we have.
“He will be so deeply missed by each and every one of us. We ask that you respect the privacy of his family and of the band at this time."
Now, Jo has become the first member of the band to come out and release her own personal statement, where she paid a heartfelt tribute to Paul.
Sharing a picture of Paul in S Club 7's heyday, Jo wrote on social media: "I just wanted to reach out and thank everybody from the bottom of my heart for the love and kindness you have shown over the tragic passing of our sweetest soul Paul.
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"This has been utterly devastating and I am totally shocked and heartbroken.
"We have lost someone so incredibly special to us all and there is a huge sense of sadness that will never go.
"Paul will forever be a huge part of our lives and I will forever treasure the memories we made.
"I will love you always Paul. God bless. Forever Rest in Peace."
Cattermole and O'Meara were original members of the band, which formed back in 1998.
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With Tina Barrett, Jon Lee, Bradley McIntosh, Hannah Spearritt and Rachel Stevens making up the rest of the line-up, the group went on to become one of the biggest bands in the world.
And earlier this year, the band announced they were reuniting for a tour to celebrate their 25th anniversary.
Featured Image Credit: PA Images / Alister Firth / Alamy Stock Photo