A popular artist died after battling coronavirus, it has been confirmed.

Paul Karslake, 61, of Leigh passed away on Monday after losing his battle with the virus, his entrepreneur sister has now announced.

Jo Wood, posted on Twitter: "So it was covid that took my brother’s life on Monday .. a deadly virus and it’s affected the whole world .. this can’t happen again it’s messed up! #banthisshit #timeforchange"

Ms Wood and Mr Karslake both grew up in Benfleet, with Ms Wood being the former wife of Rolling Stones founder Ronnie Wood.

Earlier in the week she took to Instagram to post heart-felt tributes along with several photos.

Ms Wood said: "This is my brother Paul Karslake who died today.

"I love him so much, I’ll miss him so much. A funny talented wonderful father husband and brother, life won’t be the same without him.

"RIP brother, I love you. #brother. #heartbroken #seeyouontheotherside #alwaysinmyheart."