Tributes have poured in for singer Dame Vera Lynn, following her death at the age of 103.
Figures from across the world of entertainment and politics have paid their respects to the singer, who was widely known as the Forces’ Sweetheart, having entertained troops during the Second World War.
Veteran Captain Tom Moore, who raised over £37 million for the NHS with his fundraising efforts earlier this year, helped lead the tributes.
In a tweet, he said Dame Vera had made a “huge impact on me in Burma and remained important to me throughout my life”.
Many other famous names including Piers Morgan, Katherine Jenkins, Myleene Klass and Aled Jones shared words remembering Dame Vera on Twitter...
Prime minister Boris Johnson was also among those who shared a tribute on Twitter, saying Dame Vera’s “voice will live on to lift the hearts of generations to come”.
The Royal British Legion called her an “unforgettable British icon, symbol of hope to the Armed Forces Community past and present”.
In a BBC statement, director general Tony Hall said: “What sad news. Not only was she dear to many, she was a symbol of hope during the war and is a part of our national story. She appeared on the BBC many times and had her own variety show in the 1960s and early 70s.
“She demonstrated how music and entertainment can bring joy in the most challenging times. Something that will resonate with many people today. The BBC will be showing a special tribute programme tonight.”
Dame Vera’s family said in a statement they were “deeply saddened to announce the passing of one of Britain’s best-loved entertainers at the age of 103” on Thursday.
They added: “Dame Vera Lynn, who lived in Ditchling, East Sussex, passed away earlier today, 18 June 2020, surrounded by her close family.
“Further information regarding a memorial service will be announced at a later date.”
Dame Vera was known for songs including The White Cliffs Of Dover, There’ll Always Be An England, I’ll Be Seeing You, Wishing and If Only I Had Wings, which she sang to help raise British spirits during the Blitz.
She performed for troops on the front-line during the war, often at great personal risk, in countries including Egypt, India and Burma.
Dame Vera also encouraged the British public to “rediscover that same spirit that saw us through the war” amid the coronavirus pandemic, in a special message before she turned 103 in March.
The Queen recently referenced the title of one of Dame Vera’s most beloved wartime songs when she told the country, separated from families and friends during the coronavirus lockdown: “We will meet again.”