Steve Harley, best known for being the frontman of the rock group Cockney Rebel, has died at the age of 73, his family has said.

The English singer and songwriter was receiving treatment for cancer.

“We are devastated to announce that our wonderful husband and father has passed away peacefully at home, with his family by his side,” his family said in a statement on his Facebook page.

“The birdsong from his woodland that he loved so much was singing for him. His home has been filled with the sounds and laughter of his four grandchildren.

“Whoever you know him as, his heart exuded only core elements. Passion, kindness, generosity. And much more, in abundance.”

Harley’s family said they knew the singer would be “desperately missed by people all over the world”.

The band is famous for hits including Make Me Smile, which went to number one in the UK charts in 1975, and Here Comes The Sun.

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Earlier this year, Harley was forced to say he could not commit to any concerts in 2024 due to ill health.

He had previously cancelled shows scheduled for spring and autumn of this year.

In a Facebook post at Christmas, he said cancelling the shows were “heartbreaking” and gave an update on hs treatment.

He also thanked fans for their support and “touching messages”, adding: “It means more than I can tell.”

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