“There was nothing showbizzy about Cilla, she was the same as she always had been”. Black was reportedly staying in her home in Costa del Sol in the town of Estepona when the Spanish police learned that a woman named Priscilla White had died.

She said: “I can confirm the death of British national Priscilla White, aged 72″.

He said: “It was hard because she couldn’t hear so it became texting but then we’d manage to get her”.

Her songs Anyone Who Had a Heart and You’re My World were both number one hits in 1964.

Tony Hall, director-general of the BBC, said: “Cilla Black was a wonderful artist and talented entertainer who brought joy to millions”.

They had three sons as well as a daughter who died in infancy.

When her music career began at Liverpool’s famous Cavern Club, she performed alongside such acts as The Beatles and Gerry and the Pacemakers.

Tributes have continued to flood in for the late star.

Cilla – a long-time friend of other openly gay stars – had previously spoken of her iconic status within the gay community. ‘She had a fine distinctive voice and was always a bit of a laugh. “But I knew she wasn’t very well, she didn’t seem well”. “God bless her”.

“It’s a awful shock, because there was plenty of life in Cilla left”. “Very sad day today losing such an icon”, English-born Australian singer Peter Andre wrote. “A Lorra Lorra love and gratitude Cilla“. “Noel (sic)”. “One of the all time greats in showbiz. My biggest fear is going like that when I can’t control my body”.

Many stars have paid tribute to Black on social media, and now her longtime pal Richard has written a piece for The Sun newspaper recalling his favourite memories of her and revealing he was due to visit her in Spain this week (beg03Aug15).

“Please tell me this isn’t true?”

Terry claims he last saw Cilla in Spain – where she was found dead in her holiday home – during the past year, where she told him she was losing her hearing and eyesight and was suffering with arthritis. I’ve seen her twice in the last few weeks, and as always she looked immaculate.

“From the facts that the police brought to the judge, there is no indication that would suggest any kind of violence precipitated her death”, the spokeswoman said.

Another hit was “Blind Date“, a match-making show where she would interview each candidate with the catchphrase “What’s your name and where do you come from?”