All-round entertainer Joe Longthorne has died. He was 64.

Longthorne found fame as a mainstream singer and impressionist and appeared on numerous TV shows. In recent years he was also a major live attraction.

Tributes have been paid from the showbiz world. Les Dennis tweeted: "So very sad to hear that Joe Longthorne has died. Worked with him many times. A supreme talent and a nice man. Thoughts with his family. RIP." 

Benidorm writer Derren Litten tweeted: "Very sad to hear of the passing of Hull born entertainer Joe Longthorne MBE. From first sneaking into seeing him at The Ferry Boat pub in Hessle when I was a kid to watching him play @LondonPalladium many times I’ve always been in awe of his amazing talent. RIP."

Tommy Cannon tweeted: "So sad to hear the passing of Joe Longthorne, such a talent with a fabulous voice! You will be missed, Rest in peace."

Cold Feet star John Thomson wrote: "RIP Joe Longthorne, huge talent Great entertainer. Prayers & love for friends & family."

A statement said Hull-born Longthorne died in his Blackpool home: "It is with the deepest sadness that we have to announce that the nation’s beloved entertainer Joe Longthorne MBE passed away peacefully in the early hours of today at his cherished home in Blackpool. Joe died in his bedroom, laying in the arms of his devoted husband of 21 years Jamie, with his rosary beads clutched tight to his chest. He leaves behind sister Ann and brother John. Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to Jamie and all the family at this sad time."

He continued to perform after a leukaemia diagnosis. In 2012 was awarded an MBE for charitable services.

Buy Joe Longthorne Live here.