RIP Natasha Richardson

Natasha Richardson has died this evening from a head injury following a skiing accident.

A family spokesman said: ‘Liam Neeson, his sons, and the entire family are shocked and devastated by the tragic death of their beloved Natasha.

‘They are profoundly grateful for the support, love and prayers of everyone, and ask for privacy during this very difficult time.’

The 45-year-old actress was flown to a hospital in New York after a fall in the Canadian resort of Mont Tremblant on Monday.

Her family, including mother Vanessa Redgrave and husband Neeson, had gathered at her bedside in the Lennox Hill Hospital, where she was kept on a life support machine.

Miss Richardson had been taking a private ski lesson at the resort when she fell on a ‘green’ slope, suitable for beginners.

She was at the bottom of the run in an area known as The Flats during the afternoon lesson, when she tumbled down the hill.

Initially Miss Richardson, who was not wearing a helmet, appeared unhurt.

She got up laughing and refused to see a doctor, witnesses said, even signing a medical form saying she did not need help, but an hour after returning to her hotel room she began to experience severe headaches and was taken to hospital.

Natasha is best known amongst us Fleckers for her role in The Parent Trap, playing glamorous wedding dress designer Elizabeth James.

RIP