CHAS and Dave singer Chas Hodges has died at the age of 74, two months after a Bournemouth show was cancelled for the second time.

The singer died in his sleep in the early hours of Saturday morning from organ failure.

The cheery 'rockney' duo were forced to cancel a show at the Pavilion on July 14. It was the second time the show was cancelled. The duo were originally due to perform on June 2.

A statement posed on Chas and Dave's official Twitter account today reads: "It is with tremendous sadness that we announce the passing of our very own Chas Hodges.

"Despite receiving successful treatment for oesophageal cancer recently, Chas suffered organ failure and passed away peacefully in his sleep in the early hours of this morning."

A message on the group's website added: "We would like to thank our fans for their fantastic support and goodwill at this difficult time."

Mr Hodges had suffered number of health issues and his recent cancer treatment was addressed in song Sling Your Hook.

He and Dave Peacock rose to fame in the 1970s.

They had a string of hits, including Rabbit, Snooker Loopy and Ain't No Pleasing You.