Grieving Twink to bow out for a rest

It has been confirmed that Twink (59) -- real name Adele King -- has cancelled all work commitments until September as she recuperates from illness at her Knocklyon home.

Producers have revealed that she will be replaced in Menopause: The Musical by veteran actress Sue Hodge of 'Allo 'Allo!' fame.

"She'll be off for the whole summer as she has been suffering from her asthma combined with the stress of the past few months," said a pal.

"Going to Gerry's funeral was a huge step for her as she knew all the media would be there but as she said herself, there was no way she couldn't go.

"She is heartbroken about his passing and has realised she needs to look after herself better as well as she's not getting any younger.

"She's back home now and being looked after by her daughter Naomi (16) as she builds up her strength."

Huge speculation has surrounded the stage star's next move after she was suddenly rushed to hospital earlier this month after suffering an asthma attack.

She was admitted to Mount Carmel Hospital for two weeks of treatment.

But the actress discharged herself to pay her last respects to the grief-stricken family of Gerry Ryan at their Clontarf home last Wednesday.

She also attended the packed funeral of the late broadcaster the following day where she was pictured still sporting bandages on her hands.

And she told the Herald: "Gerry was one of my best friends. He rang me every day while I was in hospital, sometimes two or three times a day.

"I'm heartbroken and I'm going back into hospital but I couldn't not say goodbye to Gerry."

mfinn@herald.ie