Dubliners Musician Jim McCann Dies Aged 70

Folk musician Jim McCann, who played with Irish band The Dubliners, has died at the age of 70.

McCann was a member of the band from 1974-79 before leaving to embark on a solo career.

He had a big hit with the song Grace.

He rejoined the group in 2002 for their 40th anniversary album and last performed with them in 2012.

McCann had been diagnosed with throat cancer and the treatment he received left him unable to sing.

But he had continued to collaborate with the band; taking photographs for them and occasionally playing the guitar.

McCann's bandmate, John Sheahan, told Sky News he was a "bubbly character, always ready to share a joke, a natural raconteur".

He said he had been in and out of hospital in recent years and had lost his "beautiful, sweet, lyrical voice".

He added that he will be "sadly missed".