NATASHA RICHARDSON - NATASHA RICHARDSON DIES AGED 45

NATASHA RICHARDSON DIES AGED 45

British actress Natasha Richardson has died as a result of head injuries sustained during a skiing accident in Canada.

The 45-year-old fell during a lesson on a beginners' slope at the luxury Mont Trembland resort on Monday.

The daughter of actress Vanessa Redgrave died in a New York hospital yesterday after being flown from Canada to receive emergency treatment on Tuesday.

Richardson's husband, Irish actor Liam Neeson, their two sons Michael, 13, and Daniel, 12, and her mother had all travelled to be by her bedside following the accident.

Initially there appeared to be no sign of injury following the skiing incident, but after being admitted to hospital when feeling ill it was confirmed Richardson's injuries were critical.

Her death was announced shortly before midnight GMT.

Neeson's publicist Alan Nierob, said in a statement following the announcement: "Liam Neeson, his sons, and the entire family are shocked and devastated by the tragic death of their beloved Natasha.

"They are profoundly grateful for the support, love and prayers of everyone, and ask for privacy during this very difficult time."

Richardson starred in a number of films including The Parent Trap and Maid in Manhattan, but received most acclaim for her stage work and in 1998 won a Tony award for best actress in a musical for her performance in Sam Mendes' production of Cabaret.