Shannen Doherty has told how her mum inspires her in her battle with breast cancer.

The former Beverly Hills 90210 star posted a message on Instagram praising the courageous way her mother, Rosa, has coped with the death of her husband, Shannen’s dad Tom.

The 45-year-old – who was honoured with the American Cancer Society’s Courage Award in Los Angeles at the weekend – said her mum was one of the people who gave her strength.

She shared a picture of the pair on Instagram and wrote: “Yesterday marked the 6 year anniversary of my fathers death.

“Ironically, I accepted a courage award last night as well. But my courage comes from all sorts of things and people.

“Like this lady…. @themamarosa she lost her husband and best friend after over 40 years of being together every second and I’ve watched her get back up and face life with such courage.”

Shannen, who has been documenting her fight against cancer on social media, said she was “honoured” to be her daughter, adding: “Love you mom.#inspiration #courage.”

The star revealed that she was fighting breast cancer in August last year, after being diagnosed in March.