The death has been described as “heartbreaking” by Penny Lancaster, as Sir Rod Stewart’s family mourn the young passing.

Sir Rod Stewart and his wife Penny Lancaster have been left “heartbroken” after the death of a young relative this week.

Last night, Rod’s daughter-in-law Nicole Stewart, who is married to his son Liam, 30, announced that her older sister, Christina, has passed away at the age of 38.

Nicole, 30, shared lovely photos of her and her sister alongside a lovely tribute. It read: “My big sister gained her angel wings and I’m not sure how I’m meant to do life without her. She’s been my absolute best friend my whole life.

“My protective big sis that always had my back. She made everyone feel seen, loved, safe. She was the glue that held us and so many together. Christina, I love you so much.

“You loved big. You nurtured. You protected. And family was absolutely everything to you.”

Christina Artukovich lived in Los Angeles, near where Nicole and her ice hockey husband Liam, son of Rod and his second wife Rachel Hunter, reside.

Nicole added: “There wasn’t a day she didn’t check in with each and every one of us. Her daily FaceTime calls, 30 texts at once… I now can’t imagine life without them.

“I love you Christina. Our Beans. I’m so thankful for you. I’m so proud of the mother you were and the boy you raised. We have Roko [Christina’s son] now, thank you for giving us him. He shines your love.”

Rachel Hunter shared her condolences, commenting: “My heart – for you and your family. Such a shock. She had Such an incredible energy she always brought into a space, a huge heart. My love to you all. Godspeed Sweet Angel.”

Rod’s wife Penny Lancaster added: “So heartbreaking. Sending all deepest condolences.”

Alana Stewart, Rod’s first wife, wrote: “I’m so very sorry. God bless you and your family. Sending you love and prayers.”

Liam also paid tribute: “Beans…. my sister in law… you were one of my best friends, if not my best friend besides my wife.

“I love you and I miss you being around a hell of a lot already. Take care of us up there.”

Although the cause of Christina’s death has not been stated, online reports state that she was pronounced dead on Monday, March 31 at 11.48pm.

This comes weeks after Nicole and Liam welcomed their second child Elsie – named after Rod’s mum.

Rod met Christina on numerous occasions, including in May at Liam and Nicole’s wedding in Croatia.

He wrote on Instagram at the time: “I’m immensely proud to have witnessed the beautiful wedding ceremony of my son Liam to his bride Nicole.

“What a wonderful union of The Stewarts and The Artukovichs. May they continue to find joy, love and laughter for as long as they may live…”