Sophie Gradon death: Former Love Island contestant dies aged 32
Former reality star made history as half of the first same-sex couple on Love Island
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Former Love Island contestant Sophie Gradon has died aged 32, according to reports.
Gradon made history on the dating show in 2016 as one half of Love Island's first same-sex couple, after she "coupled up" with Katie Salmon.
Gradon's boyfriend Aaron Armstrong posted a photo of himself with her on his Facebook page and wrote: "I will never forget that smile I love you so so much baby your [sic] my world forever ever and always."
The former reality TV star, who was born in Newcastle, was crowned Miss Great Britain in 2009.
A cause of death is currently unclear.
A spokesperson from Northumbria Police said: "At about 8.27pm yesterday police attended a property in Medburn, Ponteland, where sadly a 32-year-old woman was found deceased.
"There are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding her death. A report will now be prepared for the coroner."
Tributes have been paid by friends and Love Island fans. The official Miss Great Britain account tweeted it was "shocked beyond belief - RIP @sophiegradon sending all our love to Sophie's family at this incredible sad time".
Gradon's former co-star Olivia Buckland said: "Awful awful news this morning. I am gutted. I am so sorry the world failed you. You were such an intricate, creative, intelligent soul. Words fail me."
Alex Bowan, who was a runner-up on the 2016 series of the ITV2 show and is engaged to Buckland, tweeted: "We had lots of little chats and so many laughs. You were the shoulder to cry on and a beautiful person with a beautiful soul. Shine bright in that sky Sophie Gradon."
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