David Marsh, the father of actress and broadcaster Kym Marsh, has died after a “long battle with prostate cancer”, his family has announced.

Former Coronation Street actress and Hear’Say singer Kym, who grew up in Garswood, revealed he had been diagnosed in 2021 and has since spoken about her father’s prostate cancer on a number of occasions.

“It is with immense sadness that we confirm the passing of David Marsh,” a statement from the Marsh family said.

“A much loved husband, dad, grandad, great grandad and friend to many, David passed away peacefully at home on Friday surrounded by his family.

“We are truly heartbroken and ask for privacy at this incredibly difficult time.”

Kym took a lengthy break from presenting the BBC show Morning Live in 2021 and later revealed that she had been having anxiety attacks and was seeking help for her mental health after her father’s prostate cancer diagnosis earlier that year.

In 2022, Kym took part in Strictly Come Dancing and was the 10th celebrity to be eliminated.

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As she was voted off the BBC show, she spoke of wanting to make her father, who had been receiving prostate cancer treatment in hospital, happy.

Her father later appeared on Morning Live during Men’s Health Week.

He urged men to get prostate examinations without hesitation as he continued to receive treatment for an advanced form of the condition at the time.

In November 2023, her parents appeared on the show to provide an update.

Kym said they were living “day by day” at the moment as her father’s cancer had spread into his bones after he put off going to the doctor during the pandemic.

Despite being ill, David was in good spirits and pleased when he found out that sharing his story had helped a viewer decide to go to the doctors for a check.

The viewer tested positive for prostate cancer and went on to receive treatment.