Vernon Kay shares his heartbreak as his close friend dies suddenly at age 61

Vernon Kay has shared his heartbreak after his close friend died suddenly at the age of 61.

The TV host, 48, took to Instagram on Tuesday to reveal the devastating news and shared a touching tribute to his friend Ian Trevor.

Vernon met the security manager 26 years ago, right at the beginning of his career, when Ian was assigned to look after him after being scouted by Select Model London.

Ian, who worked as a security manager for Formula E, was affectionately known as ‘Big Ian’ and Vernon said they shared a ‘unique’ ‘tight bond’. It is not known how Ian died.

As a tribute to his friend, Vernon shared a photo of them together, writing: ‘I am absolutely devastated to hear that my friend Ian has passed away.

“Ian was the patron for the entire @fiaformulae family, but for me much more… Ian was the man who looked after me when I was scouted by @selectmodellondon in December 96” at ClothesShowLive. 26 years ago.

“We had a close bond that is unique with friends. Ian you will be greatly missed. I send my love to his family. REST IN PEACE.’

Vernon presented Channel 4’s Formula E race coverage along with Nicki Shields, who sent a message of support to Vernon after his post.

She wrote: ‘Devastating. He loved you Vern. Every time I chatted with Big Ian, the second thing he’d ask without fail would be… “Nick, is Vern here yet?”

‘A true legend with the most infectious smile and positive energy. He will leave a huge hole in the paddock.”

Formula E also shared a friendly tribute to Ian, who they described as an “instantly recognizable and familiar figure on our racetracks” when they sent their love to his wife Vicki.

A statement read: ‘Big Ian’ truly embodied the Formula E spirit. Those lucky enough to have met him will also remember Ian as a caring, humorous, conscientious person and an attentive friend to all who provide positive energy in any scenario, no matter how difficult and usually accompanied by the reassuring words in his gentle spoken word. Midland accent: ‘It’ll be fine, we’ll do this, we always do that… you know what I mean.’

Formula E staff, drivers and team personnel will feel there is a big hole in the paddock in Mexico City, as will the fans, who got to know ‘Big Ian’ through his appearances with drivers at autographs and on the podium, where he was often asked for autographs himself.

“Our thoughts are with his wife Vicki, his loving family and his closest colleagues Scott Anderson and all at International Event Security.”