Dame Vera Lynn has died, it has been confirmed today.
The 'We'll Meet Again' singer, aged 103, sadly passed away on Thursday morning surrounded by her relatives, with her family confirming the news.
A statement said: "The family are deeply saddened to announce the passing of one of Britain's best-loved entertainers at the age of 103.
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"Dame Vera Lynn, who lived in Ditchling, East Sussex, passed away earlier today, 18 June 2020, surrounded by her close family."
The Forces' Sweetheart had celebrated her 103rd birthday just a few of months ago in March.
At the time, she said: "Thank you all for the kind gifts, cards and gestures I received to celebrate my birthday this year.
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"Once again, I am overwhelmed by everyone's kindness and generosity, and am so grateful to you all for helping me to mark this milestone.
"I feel very fortunate to have reached 103, and my day will be made all the more special by hearing from people all around the world.
"Thank you also for your generosity towards my Charitable Trust as I care very much about the work it does and the donations received around my birthday are the best gift imaginable."
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Dame Vera was famous for hits such as 'The White Cliffs Of Dover', 'There'll Always Be An England', 'I'll Be Seeing You' and 'Wishing' and 'If Only I Had Wings' which boosted morale during World War Two.
"My songs reminded the boys of what they were really fighting for," she once said. "Precious, personal things, rather than ideologies and theories."
Throughout her life, Dame Vera had her own television show and toured the world. Earlier this year in May, she urged the UK to "remember the brave boys and what they sacrificed for us".
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"They left their families and homes to fight for our freedom and many lost their lives trying to protect us and our liberties," she said.
Just weeks ago, the Queen referred to one of Dame Vera's best loved songs when she told the nation separated from loved ones during lockdown: "We will meet again."
Topics: News