Tara Palmer-Tomkinson had been making plans for the future when she died peacefully in her sleep at her home in Earl’s Court , her family has said.

In the first statement issued since the socialite’s sudden death at her home in Bramham Gardens last week, her family thanked “the many people” who had contacted them, adding it has been “a source of great comfort to know how loved she was by so many people”.

The statement said the former “It-girl”, 45, died peacefully in her sleep due to a perforated ulcer and peritonitis .

The socialite shot to fame in the 1990s for her hard-partying and wild ways and led a colourful life full of highs and lows - from being treated for an addiction to cocaine to her ongoing relationship with the Royal family.

Tara Palmer-Tomkinson modelling a shirt in 1995

The family statement continued: “ Those that knew and were close to Tara knew that there was no retreat to a ‘dark place’ as some have disappointingly sought to suggest. In the last few weeks Tara was happy, positive and making plans for when she recovered her health.

“As usual she had been busy with the friends and family she loved, and who loved her in return.

Bramham Gardens, where the body of Tara Palmer-Tomkinson was found on February 8

“She was in communication with her family and others of whom she was fond over her final weekend and had spent a lot of her time recording music and playing the piano in her apartment - a sure sign that she was happy and feeling good.”

The family confirmed her funeral will be held on February 27.

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They said: “This will be a private moment for family and close friends to grieve and we would ask that our privacy at this time is respected.

"We will miss Tara very much and will never forget the joy, love and humour she brought to our lives.”

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