Entertainment

Brixton-born glam rock legend David Bowie, 69, dies after secret 18-month cancer battle

Brixton-born singing icon David Bowie, 69, has died after a private 18-month cancer battle.

The hit singer was one of the most successful artists of his time who embraced a flamboyant personal style and heralded the arrival of the glam rock era in the 1970s with his Ziggy Stardust persona.

A Bowie spokesman said: “David Bowie died peacefully today surrounded by his family after a courageous 18 month battle with cancer.

“While many of you will share in this loss, we ask that you respect the family’s privacy during their time of grief.”

Despite keeping a low profile in the last few years there was no hint that he was ill before today’s announcement.

Bowie’s son confirmed the news was true.

He tweeted: “Very sorry and sad to say it’s true. I’ll be offline for a while. Love to all.”

Social media has been flooded with tributes to the singer.

David Cameron took to Twitter branding his death a ‘huge loss’.

He tweeted: “I grew up listening to and watching the pop genius David Bowie.

“He was a master of re-invention, who kept getting it right. A huge loss.”

Some fellow Brixtoners on social media are now calling for a statue to be erected in his memory.

Image courtesy of EMI via YouTube, with thanks

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