Clodagh Rodgers dead: Eurovision legend, popular singer and TV star dies aged 78 as tributes pour in
EUROVISION star Clodagh Rodgers has died aged 78.
The Northern Irish singer finished fourth in the long-running competition in 1971, representing the UK with song Jack in the Box.
Her son Sam Sorbie confirmed the news in a Facebook post today, saying she died on Friday after a three-year illness.
In a heartfelt tribute he penned: "With a heavy heart, my dear beautiful mum Clodagh has sadly passed away after battling an illness for the last three years.
"She passed away peacefully yesterday surrounded by her family in Cobham.
"Mum has lived an incredible life, full of love and happiness.
"Her fantastic career performing, traveling the world, devoting her life to her two sons and being the rock of this family.
"Life will not be the same without Mum, but she will finally be at peace now with dad, nanny and pappa."
He added: "We all love and miss her terribly."
Rodgers finished fourth with 98 points during her Eurovision appearance, losing to Monaco, with winning act Séverine scoring 128 points for song Un banc, un arbre, une rue.
Rise to stardom
She was born on March 5 1947 and began singing professionally at the age of 13, opening for chart-topping Liverpudlian pop singer Michael Holliday.
Her dad - a dance hall tour promoter - helped her sign with Decca in 1962, with her early singles produced by American industry mogul Shel Talmy, who famously worked with The Who and The Kinks.
Rodgers first appeared on TV in 1962 as a guest on BBC's Adam Faith Show performing Let's Jump the Broomstick.
She appeared on screen several more times before taking part in the Eurovision Song Contest, hosted in Dublin.
She wore a pink frilly top and spangled hot pants during the performance.
Her song Jack in the Box was later released as a single and reached number three in the UK charts.
Rodgers went on to play a recurring role in ITV police drama The Bill in 2001.