FORMER pop star Peter Skellern has died aged 69, his family have announced.

The Bury-born singer and pianist, who had a hit in the 1970’s with You’re A Lady, died today following a battle with brain cancer.

His family said: "Peter's creativity in art, comedy and music stand as his legacy to love and laughter.

"The love he brought to us will continue to be shared with everyone through his music.

“We will miss him with all our hearts."

After leaving Bury, Skellern moved to Cornwall where he began his musical career at his local church before he studied at Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

He began recording in the 1970s, releasing 14 albums and collaborating with fellow musician, Sir Richard Stilgoe.

Skellern began ordination training almost three years ago, a dream he had since he was nine years old.

He was ordained as a deacon and a priest on the same day last year following special permission from the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby.

Soon after he was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour, but was encouraged to continue with his work.

Following his official ordination in October, he said: "For about a week I hung in this abyss and I just grabbed God.

"It was like that for about a week and then God closed the ground beneath me and I became resigned and happy and I have been like that ever since."

Skellern is survived by his wife Diana and his two children.