Cliff distraught at death of his ‘soulmate’ Olivia

SIR Cliff Richard said he was “at a loss” yesterday over the death of his best friend and “soulmate” Olivia Newton-John.

- Tom Bryant and Giles Sheldrick

The pair had one of the closest friendships in showbusiness, spanning more than 50 years.

Sir Cliff helped launch the singer’s career – and once admitted he was in love with her.

Grease star Olivia, 73, died on Monday, following a 30-year battle with breast cancer.

In a tribute, Sir Cliff, 81, said he was “just one of an army of lucky people who knew and loved her”.

He added: “I find myself at a loss as to what to say. How could we not love her? She was gorgeous, gifted and had a heart of gold.

“Olivia always had an upbeat approach to life. Only three weeks ago, I was on the phone to her.

“She was her bright positive self and I never thought for one moment of that call that I would be writing this and acknowledging her death. I hate that word!”