Tributes paid to the lead singer of Manchester band The Fall
Mark E Smith passed away at his home, aged 60.
The lead singer of the post-punk band The Fall has died at the age of 60.
Mark E Smith, who co-founded the group in Prestwich at just 19, passed away on Wednesday morning.
Smith's partner Pam Vander, who is also the band's manager, said in a statement: "It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of Mark E Smith.
"He passed this morning at home.
"A more detailed statement will follow in the next few days.
"In the meantime, Pam & Mark's family request privacy at this sad time.''
Vander, who previously used the stage name Pam Van Damned, said in a message posted on Twitter that it was "the day I've been dreading''.
Further details have not been given but last year the band were forced to cancel a string of shows due to the musician's ill health.
A message on the band's website in August cancelling gigs in the US said it was "due mostly to terrible timing, reality and a mix of bizarre and rare (true to form) medical issues that Mark is currently being treated for''.
It continued: "Unfortunately it would be a gamble on his health to fly anywhere over the next couple of months. Mark's current problems are connected to his throat, mouth/dental & respiratory system... so throwing all the meds together and continuing with the travel/shows would certainly harm any progress that we have made over the past few weeks.''
Simone Butler of Primal Scream posted a message on Twitter saying: "Thanku for the music.'