THE brother of film star Shirley Anne Field - who grew up in Bolton- has been shot dead.

Guy Broomfield is alleged to have been gunned down by the 25-year-old son of his wealthy girlfriend at his American home.

Mr Broomfield, aged 60, spent his formative years at the National Children's Home, Edgworth, with screen star Shirley.

His sister, who keeps strong ties with the town where she grew up, is understood to have flown to San Fransciso from her North London home to arrange the funeral.

The 1960's actress was initially from Guy when she was transferred to the Bolton children's home to escape the London Blitz when she was five.

But the pair were reunited when Guy was brought to the home after Shirley became traumatised by the split.

The 62-year-old screen star, who made her name in hits such as Alfie, My Beautiful Launderette and Hear My Song, has previously told of the moment the pair were brought together again.

She said: "One day, Sister Nancy told me to go to the door. I walked across in silence. I hadn't spoken in a year.

"I opened the door and there was this golden-haired child clutching a big book on birds. He reached out his hand and gave me a red satin ribbon.

"I knew instantly it was my brother - from that day on we were inseparable."

Model

Former model Guy is thought to have died instantly after being shot twice in the chest with a .38 revolver.

This morning, a spokesman at the National Children's Home, Edgeworth, said it was not thought any staff still worked there who may have cared for Shirley and Guy.

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