Gogglebox's Siddiqui family share heartbreak after announcing loss of beloved member

The Siddiqui family, famed for their appearances on Channel 4's Gogglebox, have received a tremendous outpouring of love following the announcement of their cherished cat Rufus's death.

Since gracing our screens in the inaugural season of the hit show in 2013, Sid, Raza, Baasit, and Umar have won over the nation with their witty commentary on weekly TV.

Taking to Instagram to share their sorrow, the family posted a touching tribute to Rufus. Baasit and Melissa Siddiqui penned: "Goodnight our beautiful boy Rufus. 15 and a half years wasn't long enough, you were and always will be a big part of our lives."

Their message continued, "The most chilled, cuddly, and beautiful boy who made us a family right back at the beginning. Lots of memories that we will never forget, and we are truly grateful to have known and loved you. Sleep tight, our handsome Boy."

Fans flocked to the comments section to offer condolences. Daniel wrote: "So sorry. They could live 50 years and it wouldn't be long enough" while @Peaklass commented: "Oh so sorry. It's such a heartbreak when they leave us."

Janet expressed her sympathy: "I'm so sorry for the loss of your beautiful boy. RIP Rufus," Nottinghamshire Live reported. Andora also expressed her sadness: " I'm so sorry to hear the sad news. They are just like family. Thinking of you all," Edinburgh Live reported.

Julie offered her condolences: "Rip Rufus sorry for your loss xx". In other news, the beloved Siddiqui family from Gogglebox is set to captivate audiences once again this Friday in the season's second episode.

The family recently shared some joyful news on Instagram, marking patriarch Sid's 80th birthday with a touching post: "Happy 80th Birthday to the main man himself @sidsiddiqui38. Lots of fun getting together with the family for a birthday lunch to celebrate."

They delighted their followers with a glimpse into the festivities: "1) A video to show exactly why we love dad so much...he sent this to the family group chat this morning. 2) Why Amelia's message is his favourite."

The celebrations included "A home made birthday cake by the best baker we know (brother in law - Simon) it went down a treat! ! All hands on deck to add the candles....we opted for 8 instead of 80."

The family sang "Happy Birthday sang multiple times as we always start too early. Kiddies enjoying one of Grandads birthday gifts....a vibration plate (it's what he asked for)" multiple times, albeit a bit prematurely, and the kids enjoyed one of Grandad's birthday gifts - a vibration plate, which was his request.

The post also featured some throwback photos of Mr Siddiqui looking dapper, accompanied by the message: "Some throw backs of Mr Siddiqui, looking very Dapper! Happy Birthday Dad, you really are one of a kind and loved by everyone. Love all The Siddiqui Gang xxx".

Fans of the Siddiqui family were amazed by Sid's milestone birthday, with Andrew writing: "Happy Birthday to the Boss! ! ! All the best to you. 80? ? ? No way."

Dee sent overjoyed birthday wishes: "Have the happiest of birthday's. - now please give me directions to your fountain of youth x" And Kaz was visibly shocked: "80! ! ! ! Wow, you look amazing and definitely not 80 Happy birthday".

Lorraine couldn't contain her excitement as she blurted out, "Happy birthday grandpa Siddiqui! How can you be 80 and not have any wrinkles? ? ? You look A-Maz-ing! " Shay, on the other hand, cheekily celebrated themselves with, "Happy birthday Me! ! You're looking great". Tina was equally taken aback by his youthful looks, exclaiming, "80! ! ! No I would say 60 at most. Lots of love. Happy birthday."

Pauline kept it succinct with her disbelief, "Doesn't look it!".

Amidst the shower of birthday messages, Sid showed his gratitude, "Thank you for all the birthday well wishes. Love Sid xx."