Cancer claims ex-Casualty star Rebekah Gibbs at 41

Former Casualty star Rebekah Gibbs, who has died at the age of 41, following a battle with cancer.

The Devon-born actress played the role of feisty paramedic Nina Farr between 2004 and 2006 in the BBC medical drama.

Her agent Belfield And Ward confirmed the news, writing on Twitter: “Darling Rebekah Gibbs - a true inspiration and dazzling light - never to be forgotten.”

The actress had told how she was only weeks away from giving birth when she first noticed a lump in her breast.

After having her baby daughter, Gigi, in 2008 she was told that she had a particularly aggressive cancer.

In 2010 she celebrated her second year clear of the disease, telling the BBC: “You don’t get a band waiting for you at the hospital doors, but it is a ‘wow I have done my two years’.

“I won’t get cocky though and I take each day as it comes. I am always a little unsure about the future.”

But after more than five years’ all clear, Gibbs suffered a huge seizure while on holiday this summer with her family in Devon and was diagnosed with two brain tumours, as well as one in her neck and a lesion on her lung.

The actress, who had left Casualty to start a family, also appeared in The Bill and enjoyed several stage roles.

James Redmond, who starred with Gibbs in the medical drama, tweeted: “So sad to hear lovely Rebekah Gibbs has passed away. She lit up every room with her smile and positivity. R.I.P.”

Coronation Street actress Hayley Tamaddon tweeted: “Sad day. My dear friend passed away today. A true star, always smiling and so positive. Never to be forgotten.

“So many memories.. We will never forget you Becky. Keep twinkling. Wherever you are.”