Chris Rea, the musician behind festive hit Driving Home for Christmas, has died at the age of 74.
A spokesperson for the singer’s family confirmed the sad news on Monday afternoon.
The spokesperson said: “It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Chris.
“He passed away peacefully in hospital earlier today following a short illness, surrounded by his family.”
Chris Rea (pictured in 1988) has died
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The musician has been open about his previous health battles, having been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2001.
The diagnosis resulted in the Middlesbrough-born singer having his pancreas removed.
While best known for his festive hit, Mr Rea’s discography includes a number of other well-known hits.
He achieved chart success in the late 1970s and ’80s with Fool (If You Think It’s Over), Let’s Dance, and The Road To Hell.
Chris Rea performing in 2017
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Tributes from far and wide have flooded in for the singer following the tragic news of his passing, with his beloved Middlesbrough Football Club leading the way.
On Monday afternoon, the club’s official X account shared a photo of Mr Rea along with the caption: “We’re deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Chris Rea.
“A Teesside icon. Rest in peace, Chris,” the club signed off followed by a love-heart emoji.
Meanwhile, GB News regular Lizzie Cundy, who happened to appear in Mr Rea’s music video for his iconic Christmas-time hit, also paid tribute.
Chris Rea’s family confirmed he died following a ‘short illness’
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“I’m so sad to hear Chris Rea has died,” Ms Cundy said on X. “I was lucky enough to star in his music video Driving Home for Christmas.”
She went on: “I loved every minute and was an honour to work with him and be in his iconic music video. He will always be an inspiration and legend to me. Rest in peace Chris.”
Ms Cundy’s tribute caught the eye of fellow People’s Channel contributor Mike Parry who also paid his respects.
He wrote: “Lizzie .. That Chris Rea video is absolutely iconic .. Yourself and a load of other great dancers, singers and artists made it video and Xmas folklore.
“You must be very proud to have been part of it and what a loss for you all..” (sic)
Elsewhere, northern-based journalist Peter Barron penned on X: “So sad to see that Middlesbrough’s Chris Rea has died, aged 74.
“Brilliant musician and songwriter. I had the pleasure of interviewing him, and seeing him in concert a few times. He was as lovely and down to earth to talk to as you’d imagine. RIP.”
And novelist Tony Parsons added: “Top man, Chris Rea. Hugely underrated songwriter. Rest well, Chris.” (sic)