Shilpa Shetty has offered her condolences to her one time rival Jade Goody after the latter was diagnosed with cervical cancer.

The Big Brother star had been appearing on the Indian version of the reality show - known as Bigg Boss - when she was informed of the diagnosis and has flown home to the UK.

And Bollywood actress Shetty, who was the target of alleged racism from Goody when they both appeared on Celebrity Big Brother has offered her support to her former housemate.

"I'd like to say on behalf of the people of India that we wish her well and our prayers are with her," she told GMTV.

"It's so sad for someone so young to be diagnosed with such a dreadful illness - it's horrible," Shetty added.

Goody's appearance on Bigg Boss had been billed as an attempt to rehabilitate her image after being accused of racism towards Shetty.