British singer Chris Rea, whose songs include the festive hit “Driving Home For Christmas”, has died at the age of 74, a spokesperson for his family said on Monday.
The Middlesbrough-born musician was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and had his pancreas removed in 2001, and in 2016 he suffered a stroke.
Rea found fame in the late 1970s and 1980s with hits such as “Fool (If You Think It’s Over)”, “Let’s Dance” and “The Road to Hell”.
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A statement from his family to the Press Association said: “Singer/songwriter and guitarist, Chris Rea passed away earlier today in hospital following a short illness.
A statement on behalf of his wife and two children was released to the media this afternoon.
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“It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Chris.
“He passed away peacefully in hospital earlier today following a short illness, surrounded by his family.”