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Ruth Langsford’s sister was ‘tortured’ by mental health

Ruth Langsford’s sister was "tortured by mental depression" before taking her own life.

The 60-year-old TV presenter – who married Eamonn Holmes in 2010 – was left devastated after her sibling Julia Johnson took her own life last year, and now Eamonn has opened up on his "lovely" sister-in-law’s tragic battle with mental health.

Speaking on the ‘Human Nature’ podcast, Eamonn said: "Sudden death is a very, very difficult thing to deal with, and with Julia you know, she was just the most lovely, gentile, kind person.

"I often used to joke to her and Ruth that I got the wrong sister, but she was a lovely, lovely person – tortured by mental depression."

While Ruth questioned whether she could’ve spent more time with her sibling, Eamonn, 60, insisted she "could not have done more" for Julia. He said: "Ruth was very caring, very loving to her and I think there can often be a guilt when you think, ‘Should I have been there? Where was I?’

"You can’t press the rewind button and what I would honestly say is that we were always very supportive. We were a loving family, Ruth could not have done more for her sister, and I think you know, it takes a lot of getting over that, a lot of getting over."

Julia was found dead in her home in Surrey last June after a lengthy battle with depression, leaving Ruth heartbroken.

She revealed the devastating news on Twitter, writing: "My lovely Sis Julia has sadly died after a very long illness. My heart is completely broken. She was the kindest and most gentle soul and I will miss her forever.

"As I am sure you will appreciate I need to take time to grieve with my family. Thank you for your understanding."