The death of podcast host and mother-of-two Dame Deborah James at the age of 40 was announced by her family on Instagram.

They said: “We are deeply saddened to announce the death of Dame Deborah James; the most amazing wife, daughter, sister, mummy. Deborah passed away peacefully today, surrounded by her family.

“Deborah, who many of you will know as Bowelbabe, was an inspiration and we are incredibly proud of her and her work and commitment to charitable campaigning, fundraising and her endless efforts to raise awareness of cancer that touched so many lives.

"Deborah shared her experience with the world to raise awareness, break down barriers, challenge taboos and change the conversation around cancer. Even in her most challenging moments, her determination to raise money and awareness was inspiring.

“We thank you for giving us time in private as a family, and we look forward to continuing Deborah’s legacy long into the future through the @bowelbabefund “Thank you for playing your part in her journey, you are all incredible.

"And a few final things from Deborah…’find a life worth enjoying; take risks; love deeply; have no regrets; and always, always have rebellious hope. And finally, check your poo – it could just save your life.’”

The Northern Echo:

Minister of State Michelle Donelan tweeted: “RIP Deborah James – a selfless inspiration. Thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.”

First Dates personality Fred Sirieix tweeted: “Deborah James passed away. Poor thing. RIP”

Dame Deborah James’ mother Heather said her heart is “broken” following the death of her daughter aged 40 from bowel cancer.

Heather James, whose handle on the social media site is Bowelgran, shared a series of photos of Dame Deborah and wrote: “My heart is broken. Love you forever.”

Carol Vorderman also paid tribute to Dame Deborah James, tweeting: “Rest in peace @Bowelbabe. Your incredible spirit will live on.”

Deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner described Dame Deborah as an “extraordinary campaigner”.

She tweeted: “Rest in peace Deborah James. What an incredible, fierce, bright and brilliant woman.

“An absolutely extraordinary campaigner. Thank you for your rebellious hope and the millions you have inspired @bowelbabe.

“Thinking of your many loved ones”.

TV presenter Gaby Roslin tweeted: “Bye bye my beautiful friend Deborah.

“You will forever shine so brightly. Thank you for all you did. For the laughter, the dancing and most importantly for all you did in your short lifetime for others.

“My love to all of the family. Just so heartbreaking”.

A tweet from Macmillan Cancer Support mentioned Dame Deborah’s “dedication” to standing with people with cancer.

“We are so sad to hear that Deborah James has died, and our thoughts are with her family and many friends,” they tweeted.

“Deb has been an inspiration to us all. We’re so grateful for all of her generous support over the years, and her dedication to stand together with people with cancer.”