Mark Chapman's wife dies aged 44

Mark Chapman\'s wife has died aged 44.

The \'Match of the Day 2\' presenter\'s significant other Sara passed away on Wednesday (03.06.20) after a long-term illness, and the TV host and his three kids, who are aged 17, 12 and six, have been left "absolutely devastated".

A source told The Sun newspaper: "Sadly Sara passed away on June 3. Mark and the kids are absolutely devastated.

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"The family was there and it\'s just a really sad situation.

"They\'re an extremely private family and would appreciate people respecting that."

Several stars have paid tribute to Sara and sent their well wishes to Mark - who also presents Saturday afternoon football show \'606\' on BBC Radio 5 Live, and NFL coverage on the BBC - and his children.

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\'Match of the Day\' presenter Gary Lineker wrote on Twitter: "Oh no. How utterly heartbreaking. Thoughts are with poor Chappers and his family. (sic)"

\'BBC Breakfast\' host Dan Walker tweeted: "Absolutely crushed for Chappers and his family. He loved Sara so much. May she rest in peace.

"When Chappers found out that my dad was diagnosed with cancer last year, he was so kind and thoughtful. He was also honest about the effects of cancer on his wife. His words and advice were incredibly helpful.

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"Sending all my love to Mark and his young family. (sic)"

A number of footballers, including England star Marcus Rashford, also paid tribute.

The Manchester United forward wrote: "My thoughts are with @markchapman and his children"

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Ex-Tottenham defender Ledley King posted: "Thoughts and prayers to mark chapman and his family during this sad time"

Former \'Blue Peter\' presenter Simon Thomas - whose wife Gemma died in 2017 aged 40, just three days after being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia - also sent Mark some well wishes.

He tweeted: "Thoughts very much with @markchapman and his kids tonight. Life has dealt them a very tough blow but have no doubt, given the support he showed me a two-and-a-half, that he\'ll hold that family together. (sic)"