Poly Styrene has died at the age of fifty three following a battle with lung cancer.

The singer passed away on Monday night (April 25) friend Symond Lawes confirmed: "I just spoke to her mother and its very true, she passed away quietly last night, her mother and daughter were with her, bless you Marianne. Symond xxx"

A number of musicians have paid tribute to Styrene, Boy George said: It's seems true that Poly Styrene has passed away, she was my punk hero, I'm so heartbroken! (sic)"

Styrene was the frontwoman of punk band X-Ray Spex, best known for their single 'Oh Bondage Up Yours!' and 1978 debut 'Germ Free Adolescents'.

(by Holly Frith)