Judy Dyble dead: Fairport Convention singer dies aged 71

Judy Dyble, the original singer of the British folk rock band Fairport Convention, has died aged 71 after a long illness.

Ms Dyble, who also had a solo career, shot to fame in the 1960s and sang on Fairport Convention songs including Time Will Show The Wiser.

Her agent said in a statement: “It is with great sadness that we announce that English singer-songwriter Judy Dyble passed away on July 12 following a long illness borne with great courage.

“Judy Dyble was one of the pioneers of the English folk rock scene in the 1960s, most notably as a founding member of Fairport Convention and vocalist with cult band Trader Horne.

“We wish to express our deepest sympathies to Judy’s family, friends and many associates from her musical career at this time.”

Her family “would like to thank her fans for their messages and good wishes on social media over the last few weeks”, the statement added.

David Longdon, who had been recording music with Ms Dyble which is set to be released in the autumn, also paid tribute to her.

He said: “It is with great sadness that I write to say that my dear friend Judy Dyble passed away this morning.”

He said the pair became “great friends” while making music together, adding: “Along the way, there was much laughter and joy – but also challenging moments.

“She was a woman of a certain age and she wrote articulately and unflinchingly about the autumn phase of her life.”

Fans took to social media to express their sadness at Ms Dyble's death.

Well-known novelist Jonathan Coe shared a recording of her song A Net Of Memories on Twitter, adding: “RIP the wonderful Judy Dyble. Love this song.

“Far too many deaths of beautiful people in the last few weeks. The summer of 2020 has been cruel so far.”