Tributes pour in for Cilla Black after she dies aged 72

The iconic star singer and TV personality Cilla Black has passed away aged 72. She had enjoyed a career that spanned over 50 years and was well known for popular TV shows 'Blind Date' and 'Surprise Surprise.'

A spanish police spokeswoman confirmed that Cilla had died at her Spanish home in Estepona on the Costa del Sol. She stated; “We are still awaiting autopsy results but everything at this stage is pointing towards her death being the result of natural causes.”

Paul O'Grady told the Liverpool Echo about his shock asking, "Please tell me this isn't true? We've been friends for nearly 20 years. She's like my sister." He went on to say how they'd had a week together in Barbados at the beginning of the year adding, "I can't believe it to tell you the truth."

Paul McCartney issued a statement expressing his sadness;

"Such a shock to hear about Cilla’s passing. She was a lovely girl who infected everyone with her great spirit." He went on to say "from first meeting her as a cloakroom girl at the Cavern in Liverpool, to seeing her many times since, she always had a fun loving dignity that made her a great pleasure to be around."

"She had a fine distinctive voice and was always a bit of a laugh. It was a privilege to know and love her."

Fellow Beatles legend Ringo Starr also tweeted his sadness:

Sheridan Smith who told the story of Cilla's life in an award-winning three-part drama tweeted her devastation:

At Liverpool's famous 'Cavern Club', where Cilla began her music career, posted a sign saying they are "sad to announce the passing of its famous cloak room girl & performer Cilla Black". The club was not only where she met future husband Bobby Willis but also where she took to the stage alongside The Beatles.

Host of 'Surprise Surprise' Holly Willoughby tweeted this photo with the original host and her condolences:

A host of other celebrities also took to Twitter to express their sadness:

• Showbiz