January 9, 2009 15:08

'60s pop star Dave Dee dies

Chart-topper passes away after three-year cancer battle

Singer Dave Dee has died today (January 9) following a three-year cancer battle. He was 65.

The '60s singer was the lead vocalist for Dave Dee, Dozy, Beaky, Mick and Tich, whose hit singles included 'Bend It' (1966) and 'The Legend Of Xanadu', which went to Number One in the UK Singles Chart in 1968.

Record plugger Sean Cooney told BBC News that despite his health problems, Dee had remained positive throughout his illness.

"He didn't let it get him down. He was defying it," Cooney said.

Between 1965 and 1969, Dave Dee, Dozy, Beaky, Mick and Tich spent more time in the UK Singles Chart than The Beatles. Dee left the group in 1969, although he rejoined the band in the '90s to play nostalgia shows.

Dee, whose real name was David Harman, performed with the band until his death.