The last public photo of Dame Vera Lynn shows the Forces' Sweetheart in a poignant final appearance.
The national treasure died today at the age of 103, having been the voice of British resilience throughout the Second World War.
A statement from her family reads: "The family are deeply saddened to announce the passing of one of Britain's best-loved entertainers at the age of 103.
"Dame Vera Lynn, who lived in Ditchling, East Sussex, passed away earlier today, 18 June 2020, surrounded by her close family."
Dame Vera is well known as The Queen's favourite singer and her most popular song remains We'll Meet Again, which Her Majesty even referenced in a recent address to the nation during the coronavirus pandemic.
The final known photos of Dame Vera Lynn in public now carries an added poignancy following her death.
Here Dame Vera was pictured on June 24, 2019, at the age of 102.
She was seen out with her daughter Virginia and her partner, Conservative Party councillor Tom Jones.
The singer-songwriter was all smiles in the images, showing her optimistic resilience had carried through, even to old age.
Tributes have since poured in for the iconic star, from celebrities to politicians.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson paid tribute to Vera, saying her "charm and magical voice entranced and uplifted our country in some of our darkest hours. Her voice will live on to lift the hearts of generations to come".
Her friend and theatre director Roger Redfarn said: He said: "Dame Vera has been a dear friend since the early 1970’s and for many years a neighbour in the village of Ditchling.
"The world knows of her great voice that through the good and bad times has thrilled millions.
"My own father firmly believed that the Second World War was won by Sir Winston Churchill and Vera Lynn.
"As a friend she was the warmest and kindest of people, I never saw her angry or say a bad word of anyone, people would stop her in the street and she always found time for them.
"She cared particularly about our armed forces, ‘her boys’ as she called them."
That same warmth particularly radiates in these final public images of the star.
Rest in peace, Dame Vera.
What are your favourite memories of Dame Vera Lynn? Let us know in the comments below.
