Tributes pour in for 'amazing writer' Maeve Binchy after peaceful death

Famed Irish writer Maeve Binchy has lost her battle for life after a short illness, with her loving husband by her side.

The widely respected 72-year-old novelist, playwright, journalist and columnist died in a private south Dublin hospital last night. She had recently been suffering from heart problems and arthritis.

During a glittering career which saw her sell more than 40 million copies of her books worldwide, the native of Dalkey in Dublin set the highest standards for modern Irish literature.