Gerry Marsden, lead singer of Gerry and the Pacemakers, has died at the age of 78 due to a heart infection.

The musician was best known for his 1963 version of the old show tune 'You'll Never Walk Alone', which went on to become synonymous with Liverpool Football Club.

Other hits for the Merseybeat group included 'Ferry Cross The Mersey' and 'Don't Let the Sun Catch You Crying', the former of which was re-released with added vocals from Paul McCartney and Frankie Goes To Hollywood frontman Holly Johnson following the Hillsborough disaster of 1989.

Marsden retired two years ago following a second heart operation, having previously undergone triple bypass heart surgery in 2003.

The news of his death was broken by good friend Pete Price, who wrote on social media: "It's with a very heavy heart after speaking to the family that I have to tell you the Legendary Gerry Marsden MBE after a short illness which was an infection in his heart has sadly passed away.

"Sending all the love in the world to Pauline and his family. You'll Never Walk Alone."

Marsden is survived by his wife of 55 years, Pauline, and daughters Yvette and Victoria.