Eric Morecambe's widow Joan dies aged 97 - 40 years after husband

Joan Morecambe at the unveiling of her husband's statue in Morecambe

Eric Morecambe's widow Joan has died "peacefully" on her 97th birthday following a short illness, her family has announced.

She married the famed Lancashire comedian, known for his double act Morecambe and Wise alongside Ernie Wise, in Margate in 1952.

Joan was described as a "devoted wife" to Eric until his death 40 years ago in May 1984 at the age of 58.

The couple had three children - a daughter Gail and sons Gary and Steven.

A statement issued on behalf of her children said: "It is with great sadness and the heaviest of hearts that we must share the news that our mother, Joan, has passed away peacefully at the age of 97 after a short illness

Eric Morecambe (L) died in 1984 and Ernie Wise died in 1999

"Our family kindly requests some privacy during this time while we grieve our sad loss."

Born on 26 March 1927, she died on her 97th birthday on Tuesday.

In 2015, Joan was made an OBE for charitable services in the Queen's New Year's Honours List.

She was also the founder and president of the Lady Taverners, part of the Lord's Taverners youth cricket and disability sports charity, from 1987 to 1992.

In 2016, thieves targeted her home when she travelled to Blackpool, more than 200 miles away from her property at the time in Hertfordshire, to unveil a statue in memory of her husband and his comic partner Ernie Wise.

Morecambe and his partner Wise, who died in 1999 aged 73, are among the most popular and enduring comedy stars in British TV history.