Showband star Sonny Knowles passes away aged 86

Singer Sonny Knowles has died at the age of 86.

He passed away peacefully this morning surrounded by his family.

The Dublin-born star was an entertainer for six decades, best known for both showband and caberet.

He was a member of the Johnny Butler Band, Earl Gill's Band, the Pacific Showband and then Dermot O'Brien's showband.

He survived oesophageal cancer twice.

Digital Desk