Sophie Gradon death: Former Love Island contestant dies aged 32

Former reality star made history as half of the first same-sex couple on Love Island

Former Love Island contestant Sophie Gradon has died aged 32, according to reports.

Gradon made history on the dating show in 2016 as one half of Love Island's first same-sex couple, after she "coupled up" with Katie Salmon.

Gradon's boyfriend Aaron Armstrong posted a photo of himself with her on his Facebook page and wrote: "I will never forget that smile I love you so so much baby your [sic] my world forever ever and always."

The former reality TV star, who was born in Newcastle, was crowned Miss Great Britain in 2009.

Sophie Gradon during the 2016 series of Love Island (ITV/REX)

A cause of death is currently unclear.

A spokesperson from Northumbria Police said: "At about 8.27pm yesterday police attended a property in Medburn, Ponteland, where sadly a 32-year-old woman was found deceased.

"There are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding her death. A report will now be prepared for the coroner."

Tributes have been paid by friends and Love Island fans. The official Miss Great Britain account tweeted it was "shocked beyond belief - RIP @sophiegradon sending all our love to Sophie's family at this incredible sad time".

Gradon's former co-star Olivia Buckland said: "Awful awful news this morning. I am gutted. I am so sorry the world failed you. You were such an intricate, creative, intelligent soul. Words fail me."

Alex Bowan, who was a runner-up on the 2016 series of the ITV2 show and is engaged to Buckland, tweeted: "We had lots of little chats and so many laughs. You were the shoulder to cry on and a beautiful person with a beautiful soul. Shine bright in that sky Sophie Gradon."