I owed him so much and I'm glad I got to tell him - Stars' heartfelt tributes to Blackpool's Phil Winston
‘I’m forever grateful for his iconic influence and guiding over the years.’
Phil Winston, who died in June, was the founder of Phil Winston’s Theatreworks College, teaching and inspiring a generation, many of whom have gone on to enjoy fame.
Ice-skater Dan Whiston, who’s appeared on Dancing on Ice and continues his work locally in Blackpool said how sorry he was to hear the sad news of Phil’s passing.
On Instagram he said: “Forever grateful for his iconic influence and guiding over the years. RIP Phil. Thoughts and prayers go out to Chris and Phil’s family and friends.
Actor and soapstar Jennifer Ellison said she was heartbroken and had found it difficult to write a tribute on Instagram.
She said: “From the first day I met you, when you choreographed My Slave to the rhythm Miss Dance at 16 to rolling round your floor in my 30s doing my teacher’s exam, you have always been the biggest supporter ever! Always caring and worrying about others before yourself.
“Phil, you were one of the nicest, most supportive, nurturing, encouraging humans on this planet and the world will not be the same withour you.
“I can’t believe I’ll never get one of your calls again. I’ve sat reading our messages, crying with laughter then tears!
“You were and always will be a true icon, the best in the business and the dance world has lost the best.
“I will miss you forever.”
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Blackpool’s own Hayley Tamaddon said Phil gave her the ‘thick skin she needed for the industry’
She said: “I have performed since I was 3.
“At the age of 11 my mum said to me.. ok.. if you want to do this professionally we need to go Phil Winstons theatre school.
“He taught me, prepared me, gave me the thick skin I needed for this industry… and without him I would never have made it to drama college in London at 16.
“I owe him so much.
“And I’m glad I got to tell him that when I last saw him.
“Rest in peace now Phil. Your name will live on. Sending Chris and his family all my love.”