LONDON: Legendary British singer Vera Lynn, the so-called "forces sweetheart" who helped keep up morale during World War II, died Thursday aged 103, her family said.
Lynn travelled thousands of miles to Egypt, India and Myanmar to entertain British troops with a string of classic songs such as "We'll Meet Again" and "The White Cliffs of Dover".
A performer from the age of seven, she also starred in films, enjoyed a number of post-war hits and was made a Dame of the British Empire in 1976.
Lynn, who lived in East Sussex, southeast England, died surrounded by her close family, relatives said.
"The family are deeply saddened to announce the passing of one of Britain's best-loved entertainers at the age of 103," a short statement added.
When Lynn turned 100 in 2017, her portrait was projected onto the famed White Cliffs of Dover. She also released a new album - becoming the first centenarian to do so.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson led the tributes that poured in from across the country and political spectrum.
"Dame Vera Lynn's charm and magical voice entranced and uplifted our country in some of our darkest hours," he said on Twitter.
"Her voice will live on to lift the hearts of generations to come." The Royal British Legion, a charity providing financial, social and emotional support to veterans, called Lynn "an unforgettable British icon" and "symbol of hope to the Armed Forces community past and present".-AFP
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