Actress Emily Atack has paid tribute to Dame Jilly Cooper after her death at the age of 88 was announced on Monday.
The former Inbetweeners star, 35, shared a photo of herself next to the author along with a heartfelt message on Instagram.
Ms Cooper, who wrote huge successes including Rivals and The Riders, died after a fall at her home, with her two children, Felix and Emily, sharing the news in a statement today.
The heartbreaking message read: "Mum was the shining light in all of our lives.
Dame Jilly Cooper was one of the nation's best-loved authors | PA"Her love for all of her family and friends knew no bounds. Her unexpected death has come as a complete shock.
"We are so proud of everything she achieved in her life and can’t begin to imagine life without her infectious smile and laughter all around us."
In her own tribute, Ms Atack, who had worked with Ms Cooper on the Disney+ series, wrote: “Oh Jilly. I can’t believe I’m writing this.
“Almost 3 years ago, you gave me Sarah Stratton, and my life changed forever.
“I’ll never forget the first time we met. Your warmth and kindness soared through me with that first hug, and then every hug since.
“To be taken into your world was the hugest honour and a once in a life time privilege.
“I cannot begin to explain how much we will miss you. Thank you for letting us into Jilly World, there really is no place like it.
“Sending all my love to Jilly’s wonderful family. Praying that you all feel somewhat comforted by knowing and seeing just how adored she was."
Jilly Cooper was made a Dame last year | PAShe concluded the poignant statement: "What a woman, what a legacy. We love you Dame Jilly.”
Ms Cooper achieved wide acclaim for her writings, namely the Rutshire Chronicles series. Rivals, the second book in the series, was adapted for screens and aired on Disney+. Dame Jilly served as an executive producer on the adaptation.
Queen Camilla also issued a statement on the writer's death, writing in a statement: "I was so saddened to learn of Dame Jilly’s death last night.
"Very few writers get to be a legend in their own lifetime but Jilly was one, creating a whole new genre of literature and making it her own through a career that spanned over five decades.
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Emily Atack shared a statement following Dame Jilly's death
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"In person she was a wonderfully witty and compassionate friend to me and so many - and it was a particular pleasure to see her just a few weeks ago at my Queen’s Reading Room Festival where she was, as ever, a star of the show.
"I join my husband The King in sending our thoughts and sympathies to all her family. And may her hereafter be filled with impossibly handsome men and devoted dogs. Camilla R".