Vanessa Williams pays tribute to ‘loyal’ mother following her death aged 85

Vanessa Williams has announced the death of her mother at the age of 85 (Ian West/PA)

Model, singer and actress Vanessa Williams has paid tribute to her “loyal” mother Helen Williams following her death at the age of 85.

The 61-year-old said her mother died “surrounded by family and friends” just 20 days after celebrating her birthday at a performance of The Devil Wears Prada in London, which Williams was starring in.