Singer and entertainer Joe Longthorne has died, aged 64

The singer and entertainer Joe Longthorne has died at the age of 64.

He passed away on Saturday morning at his home, in his husband's arms and surrounded by family, loved ones confirmed.

A statement released by the family said: "It is with the deepest sadness that we have to announce that the nation's beloved entertainer Joe Longthorne MBE passed away peacefully in the early hours of today at his cherished home in Blackpool.

"Joe died in his bedroom, laying in the arms of his devoted husband of 21 years Jamie, with his rosary beads clutched tight to his chest.

"He leaves behind sister Ann and brother John. Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to Jamie and all the family at this sad time."

Longthorne had suffered from cancer for more than three decades. Born and raised in Hull, East Yorks, he rose to fame in 1981 as a singer and impressionist on the TV show Search For a Star. His success on the show led to appearances at the London Palladium and a month-long season at London's Talk of the Town.

Longthorne released three albums and was also known for his impressions of Dame Shirley Bassey and Frank Sinatra, among others. He battled cancer several times throughout his life, including blood cancer in 1987 which resulted in a diagnosis of chronic lymphatic lymphoma two years later.

In 2005, the lymphoma degenerated into leukaemia and in 2014 the entertainer was diagnosed with throat cancer. Despite his illness, Longthorne continued to perform and he was due to make an appearance in Blackpool on Sunday.

Before his marriage, Longthorne had a relationship with a woman named Susan, who gave birth to their son Ricky. The father and son were estranged for 17 years but they reunited in 2009.

His fans, friends and peers have been paying tribute to the star on social media. Benidorm writer Derren Litten wrote: "Very sad to hear of the passing of Hull born entertainer Joe Longthorne MBE. From first sneaking into seeing him at The Ferry Boat pub in Hessle when I was a kid to watching him play the London Palladium  many times I’ve always been in awe of his amazing talent. RIP"

Presenter Danny Baker posted a video of Longthorne on TFI Friday, and described him as, "A proper powerhouse turn, show business to his fingertips. When we needed someone on TFI to bombard Bowie with show stoppers there was only one man for the job. See ya, Joey."

Meanwhile, darts champion Phil Taylor posted: "I would like to send my sincere condolences to the family of my good buddy Joe Longthorne who sadly has passed away. Had some great times with him and have great memories. RIP my mate."

And Les Dennis added: "So very sad to hear that Joe Longthorne has died. Worked with him many times. A supreme talent and a nice man. Thoughts with his family. RIP."