Dolly Parton dies, aged 80

Legendary country singer Dolly Parton has died, aged 80.

The news was confirmed by her family, who shared a statement via Parton's nephew Brian Seaver.

He released a video on Instagram, telling fans: "This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago, before I fully absorbed it as a future reality.

"As her head of security for more than two decades, a role my father Larry held before me, I have imagined the heaviness of this moment, but haven't truly felt it until now.

"It is an honour, an honour that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness. But sadness lies with us, not with Dolly.

"Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus, surely met by Carl, her parents, and countless others who have watched her and longed for her to meet them in the heavens."

He added: "Dolly also opened doors for generations of singers, songwriters, musicians and dreamers from every walk of life and across every continent.

"She never saw a door she couldn't open, and the doors she opened made and changed history.

"My family and I have shared a lifetime of beautiful memories with Dolly, but so have you. She has always been your television, your record player, your CD, becoming an extended part of your family. Whether you liked it or not.

"Our family and the team she has entrusted with her legacy will work diligently to ensure her spirit will live with us forever."

Parton had recently admitted to 'health issues', having been forced to postpone her Las Vegas residency in May due to undisclosed concerns around her wellness.

In a statement to People on 21 August, she said she was dealing with problems she 'just didn't pay attention to' when she was 'watching over' her husband, Carl Dean - to whom she was married from 1966 until his death in March last year.

However, she said had no plan on slowing down, telling the outlet: "Even though I’m still healin’, I’m still workin’! You know me — as I’ve often said — I’ve dreamed myself into a corner and I still have so many things I want to achieve, so I’m gonna keep on working as long as I can to see everything come to life.”

Throughout her incredible career, which spanned 60 years, she released 50 studio albums - in turn winning no fewer than 11 Grammy Awards, 10 Country Music Association awards and seven Academy of Country Music awards, among others, including three Emmys, six Golden Globes and an honorary Oscar.

She was best know for hits such as '9 To 5', 'I Will Always Love You' and 'Jolene', as well as acting credits in the likes of Steel Magnolias, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and Rhinestone.

Rest in peace, Dolly - thanks for the good times.