Fans in shock as Mystic Ed dies aged 57
A psychic to the stars whose career brought him television fame has died after a short illness.
Tributes were today paid to Mystic Ed, real name Francis Ward, who was 57.
Ed, who lived in Cannock with his partner Brian Murphy, started his spiritualist career on BBC radio before making the move to the small screen where he featured on Good Morning with Nick Owen and Can't Cook, Won't Cook with Ainsley Harriot.
A message on Mystic Ed's website broke the news of his death, stating: "Dear Friends, it is with great sorrow that I have to announce the passing of Ed, he passed away at 3.15pm on the 27th March at Stafford Hospital, after a short illness. He will be sadly missed." More than 100 people have left messages on Ed's Facebook page paying their final respects.
Leon Barnfield wrote: "Ed, you were a gift from God above, only on loan to us. You have touched the lives of so many people, given guidance, direction and hope to many - an Angel that walked amongst us."
Michelle Dawn Bridgewater added: "In complete shock. A great guy who really helped me and will really miss seeing him again." Simon Behnke said: "Sorry to hear such tragic news, take comfort in the memories he gave everyone."
The entertainer began his spiritualist career in 1995 with a 10-minute slot on BBC radio. He was soon given a two-hour show giving psychic readings to celebrities.
He made the leap to TV featuring on Good Morning and Can't Cook and was chosen as makeover expert for Channel 5's World of Wonder series Housebusters. Radio Shropshire recruited Ed, giving him his own show called Mystic Ed-Lines. He was also a qualified hypnotherapist.
