Rod Stewart and Penny Lancaster have been rocked by a devastating death in the family, his daughter-in-law Nicole Stewart announced her older sister Christina had died at the age of 38. In an emotional online tribute, Nicole, the wife of Rod's son Sean, wrote: "My big sister gained her angel wings and I'm not sure how I'm meant to do life without her. She's been my absolute best friend my whole life."

She continued to honour her sister, saying, "My protective big sis that always had my back. She made everyone feel seen, loved, safe. She was the glue that held us and so many together. Christina, I love you so much. You loved big. You nurtured. You protected. And family was absolutely everything to you." Nicole's heartfelt post went on to describe Christina, who lived close by in Los Angeles, as a constant presence in their lives: "There wasn't a day she didn't check in with each and every one of us. Her daily FaceTime calls, 30 texts at once... I now can't imagine life without them.

"I love you Christina. Our Beans. I'm so thankful for you. I'm so proud of the mother you were and the boy you raised. We have Roko [Christina's son] now, thank you for giving us him. He shines your love."

Penny Lancaster, 54, was among the first to share her devastation, penning: "So heartbreaking. Sending all deepest condolences."

Rod's first wife also shared her thoughts, stating: "I'm so very sorry. God bless you and your family. Sending you love and prayers."

Nicole's mother, Rachel Hunter, expressed her sorrow with: "My heart - for you and your family. Such a shock. She had Such an incredible energy she always brought into a space, a huge heart. My love to you all. Godspeed Sweet Angel."

Rod's son Liam, an ice hockey player, shared his grief: "Beans.... my sister in law... you were one of my best friends, if not my best friend besides my wife. I love you and I miss you being around a hell of a lot already. take care of us up there."

Christina and Rod had crossed paths on several occasions, most notably at Nicole and Liam's wedding the previous year. At that time, Rod had posted a heartfelt message for the newlyweds: "I'm immensely proud to have witnessed the beautiful wedding ceremony of my son Liam to his bride Nicole. What a wonderful union of The Stewarts and The Artukovichs. May they continue to find joy, love and laughter for as long as they may live."

Nicole and Liam had recently celebrated the arrival of their second child, a daughter named Elsie, in honour of Rod's mother.