Bernie Nolan, actress and singer with The Nolans, has passed away today at the age of 52. She had been battling cancer for a second time, after previously beating breast cancer in 2010.
Bernie died at home with her family, having spent the majority of her final weeks in a hospice, and is survived by her husband Steve Doneathy and her 14-year-old daughter Erin.
A spokesperson for the family said: "Bernie passed away peacefully this morning with all of her family around her. The entire family are devastated to have lost beloved Bernie, a wonderful wife, adoring mother and loving sister; she is irreplaceable.
They kindly ask people to respect their privacy at this difficult time."
Nolan was made aware last year that her cancer was terminal but pledged to fight the disease, going so far as to tell The Mirror that cancer can "get stuffed!"
She released an autobiography 'Now and Forever' last year which shot to the summit of the bestsellers chart.
The Nolans were one of Ireland's most successful musical exports, enjoying particular success in Japan. Their 1979 smash hit 'I'm In The Mood For Dancing' sold millions of records across the world.
The Nolan sisters were last seen on stage together in 2009 when they briefly reunited for a comeback tour and album.
