Ryan Thomas pays tribute to late father Dougie James following his death aged 72

Ryan Thomas has admitted he’s been going through a ‘tough time’ as he paid tribute to his late father Dougie James, who passed away last month aged 72. 

The actor, 36, took to Instagram on Sunday to thank his fans for their support following the soul singer’s funeral earlier in the week.

‘Shine bright wherever you are’, the former Coronation Street star said in a heartfelt message alongside a throwback image of himself with his parent.

The media personality started off his post by sharing his pride at being the son of a well-recognised musician as he wrote: ‘You are the reason I’m proud to be a Thomas.

‘Since being a young child I’ve always been in awe of you, growing up watching you on the stage to people stopping me in the street saying ‘are you Dougie James’s son?’ is something I love more than you will ever know. 

‘Last year feels even more special now because me & my brothers got the chance to show you off to the nation we will never forget that.’

Last year, Ryan and his twin brothers Adam and Scott, 32, headed to India with their dad for an ITV documentary, Mancs In Mumbai, where they explored their heritage in a six-part series.

The soap star went on to express his gratitude towards his close family and friends for their support, especially at Dougie’s recent funeral.

Father-of-two Ryan explained: ‘Just wanted to take this time to thank every single person for coming out to the Chapel on Friday one of the hardest days of my life but it’s times like this you realise how important your friends and family are.

‘We were overwhelmed with the amount of people who turned up to show there respect he really was loved in Manchester, there were moments at the chapel I’d feel myself looking at all the people with a big smile on face thinking ‘that’s my dad!!!!’ 

Ending his post by acknowledging support from his social media followers, the Manchester native added:  ‘So glad I got to show you off one last time. I 

‘I’ve not had chance to reply to everyone’s messages but I want you to know your love & support has really helped me get through this extremely tough time thank you.

‘Dad you always said to me buying you a van was the best gift I ever gave you, I want you to know the best gift you ever gave me was my brothers I couldn’t of done this without you both love you boys @adamthomas21 @scott.thomas 

‘Shine bright wherever you are. We love you dad ❤️.’ (sic)

BBC Manchester‘s Mike Shaft announced Dougie’s death last month on his show as remembered: ‘He played all over the north west, in those days when they were playing places like Golden Garter they’d have bands on, an American band and then Dougie James. 

‘Wonderful guy, always a smile on his face. Always a happy story. Very sad news.’ 

At the height of their fame, Dougie’s band toured with The Jackson Five and his sons have inherited his love of the spotlight.

His cause of death is currently unconfirmed.