Cilla Black ‘willed herself to die’, close friend of the star says

“She always had a fun loving dignity that made her a great pleasure to be around”.

It was there that she was spotted by the Beatles, and the band’s manager, Brian Epstein, signed her soon after.

She became one of the nation’s favourite entertainers after transforming herself from a successful singer in the 1960s to the front woman on shows such as Blind Date and Surprise! “We respectfully request for our continued privacy to grieve”.

Last night a spokesman for Cilla’s family said: “We are desperately waiting for the coroner’s report”.

Actress and author Collins was among the first to pay tribute online, writing, “I am so sad and shocked by news about my good friend Cilla. She was so kind and helpful to me, it was a privilege to play her”, she said, “My condolences go out to her family and all who loved her. She will be truly missed”. Although details are scarce, it’s thought she passed away overnight. Cilla didn’t drive so I happily became her chauffeur, but refused to wear the cap!

“It’s with deep sorrow that I affirm… the passing of singer and TV character Cilla Black”, stated her agent, Nick Fiveash.

The Blind Date and Surprise Surprise legend died on Saturday, and her son Robert found her after she failed to wake from her siesta.

He writes, “Cilla was one of my dearest friends… a force of nature, but honest, gritty and always, well, Cilla!…”

Former Beatle Sir Paul McCartney said: “She was a lovely girl who infected everyone with her great spirit”.

“She had a fine distinctive voice and was always a bit of a laugh”.

She was also a bridesmaid at Cilla’s wedding to Bobby Willis in 1969.

She quickly impressed the Beatles and others with her talent, when she gave impromptu performances at the Cavern.

He told Sky News: “She always felt like a friend in your living room when she was on TV”.

She appeared to have died from natural causes but this had not yet been confirmed by tests, police said. She is survived by their three sons. “But I knew she wasn’t very well, she didn’t seem well”.

Prime Minister David Cameron has also honoured Black’s memory, writing, “Cilla Black was a huge talent who made a significant contribution to public life in Britain”.

Amy Kelly met the 72-year-old national treasure at Gatwick Airport on Friday and took the snap just 24 hours before she died in her Spanish villa.