Amy Winehouse found dead

Back to Black star's body discovered in her London flat...

09:09 25 July 2011

Tributes have been pouring in for singer Amy Winehouse, who was found dead at her North London flat at the weekend. 

The talented but troubled star's body was discovered by police at her home on 23 July.

Police say that the 27-year-old's death is "unexplained", however she had fought a long, public battle with drink and drugs.

In a statement, her family said they have been left "bereft" by their loss, adding:

"She leaves a gaping hole in our lives."

Hundreds of fans gathered outside her house to lay flowers, cards and photos, as well as packets of cigarettes and bottles of vodka, while celebrities have been paying tribute via Twitter.

Producer Mark Ronson, who worked with Amy on her hugely successful Back to Black album, posted:

"She was my musical soulmate and like a sister to me. This is one of the saddest days of my life."

Comedian Russell Brand, who was a close friend of the star's, posted a statement on his website, describing her as a "genius".

Winehouse made her last public appearance on 20 July, joining her goddaughter Dionne Bromfield on stage at the Roundhouse in Camden.

She pulled out of her comeback tour last month after she was jeered during a performance in Serbia for appearing to be drunk.

Amy had recently finished a course of alcohol rehabilitation in London and was under strict instruction not to drink.

A post-mortem examination date is to be fixed later today