Lanarkshire-born showbiz legend Sydney Devine has died at the age of 81.
The entertainer was taken to Ayr Hospital by ambulance almost three weeks ago after falling ill at home, the Daily Record reports.
He had released a new song in tribute to the NHS while he battled a serious mystery illness.
Iain Gordon, general manager at Glasgow’s Pavilion Theatre said: “This is probably the hardest thing that I have ever had to announce and put on social media, this morning at 3:30am, our friend and star of the Pavilion and Scottish legend Sydney Devine has passed away.
“I have worked with Sydney and the band since 1976 and have to say, I have never seen a bad performance, he was the ultimate showman and performer.
“That is truly hard to find in this business. Syd always took time for everyone, fans, staff and other performers. I just texted him at 8.27am this morning wishing him well and hoped that he had had a better week.
“He was one of the Pavilion Family and is a great loss to everyone who followed him over the years. Generations of families have grown up with Sydney, playing his music and passing it down through the generations.
“Over the years, we have seen parents bringing their kids to see him and in turn, they would bring their kids to the annual “Sydney Devine Weekend”.
“Our condolences to Shirley and all the family at this time.
“From everyone at the Pavilion, thank you for the memories Sydney. You will never be forgotten, Absolutely Devine! Rest in peace.”
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon shared her own tribute on Twitter: "So sad. For Scots of a certain vintage - which definitely includes me - the name Sydney Devine was once synonymous with Scottish entertainment. A true legend. My condolences to his loved ones."
The country and western singer was fighting a chest and lung condition, which doctors had been struggling to diagnose.
His family were assured that he did not have Covid.
Sydney took unwell on January 23, the same day his wife Shirley was also rushed to hospital.
She was able to return home after being given antibiotics.
More to follow.
