“It was privilege to know and work with them”
(Image: Shed Media)
Waterloo Road has issued a heartbreaking statement following the tragic deaths of two of the BBC show’s former stars in the space of just two days. William Rush died aged 31 on December 17, followed by Lorraine Cheshire, aged 65, on December 19.
William, who was from Bury and trained at the Manchester School of Acting, had also appeared on Coronation Street in 2014, playing the role of a young man who threatened Maddie Heath at her hostel.
In BBC drama Waterloo Road, William played the role of Josh Stevenson from 2009 until 2012. He also had roles in Shameless, Grange Hill, Casualty and Vera and appeared on The X Factor back in 2016, where he made it through to the six-chair challenge, the third of four elimination stages.
Actress Lorraine Cheshire, who also starred in Waterloo Road, died on December 19. From Wythenshawe, she was best known for her roles in the Sky TV sitcom Trollied, the hit BBC sitcom Early Doors and the school-based drama, where she appeared as Fleur Budgen rom 2007 until 2012.
Sharing an emotional post on social media on Monday (December 22), Waterloo Road posted: “A very sad week for the Waterloo Road family. We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of William Rush and Lorraine Cheshire.
Lorraine Cheshire(Image: BBC)
“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to their families and friends during this very difficult time. It was privilege to know and work with them.”
The announcement of William’s death came from his actor mum Debbie Rush, who also starred in Coronation Street. Announcing the news of his passing, alongside a picture of William wearing a Manchester City football shirt, Debbie shared: “Our beautiful baby boy, William, passed away on 17th December. As a family, our hearts are completely broken, and there are no words that can truly capture the depth of our loss.
“Even in our darkest moment, William gave the most precious gift of all. Through being an organ donor, he has given hope and life to other families, thinking of others right to the very end. His kindness and love will forever be part of his legacy. We kindly ask that our privacy be respected as we navigate this unimaginable grief. William will always be loved, always missed, and forever in our hearts.”
Days later, Lorraine’s partner, John, announced her death on social media. Actress Faye McKeever, who stared alongside Cheshire in Trollied, posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram.
She said: “Laughing with Lozza in unison will always be one of my favourite memories. I will forever be thankful of the Trollied day and the endless fun we used to share. Boy did we belly laugh. Whenever she started it would set me off, and vice versa. Thinking of John and Carly at this very sad time. Rest in peace Lozza.”