Driving Home for Christmas singer Chris Rea dies

Chris Rea, known for his song Driving Home for Christmas, has died at the age of 74, his family has confirmed. In a statement, his family says he passed away in hospital after a short illness. The statement issued on behalf of his wife and the couple's two daughters read: "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." The Middlesbrough-born musician was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and had his pancreas removed in 2001. In 2016, he suffered a stroke. Rea is survived by his wife, Joan, and their two daughters, Josephine and Julia. He and Joan had been together since they first met at the age of 16.