Paul McCartney and Joan Collins remember Cilla Black

Lulu tweets, “Sooo sad to hear that Cilla has died”.

Black – who suffered from hearing problems and arthritis – reportedly died overnight after flying to Spain with her son Robert.

Her instantly recognisable “scouse” Liverpool accent won over generations of music fans and television viewers. I am deeply sorry for her family’s loss.

Known affectionately as Cilla to generations of Britons, Black later moved into television, hosting a string of prime-time shows.

Antonio also said that right before Cilla passed away, she appeared to be fine, with no real signs anything was wrong. “She was someone who was a life force, she loved to laugh and loved to enjoy herself”.

Scotland’s first minister Nicola Sturgeon described Black as “one of my childhood idols”.

She said: “Seventy-five is a good age to go, I still think that way”. My mum and dad said no – my grandad said yes.

Singer Sir Cliff Richard said he will miss his “outrageous” friend dearly.

Cilla was awarded an OBE in 1997 and in 2013 she celebrated 50 years in show business.

“She had a huge, huge talent once she got her confidence”.

Tributes poured in when news of Cilla Black’s death were released.