We shared the news that the Pogues frontman Shane MacGowan has passed away at the age of 65.

MacGowan had been in intensive care for several months after first being diagnosed with viral encephalitis last year, which is said to have been exacerbated by shingles that spread to his eye.

Shane MacGowan's wife Victoria Mary Clarke took to Instagram to announce the sad news.

The Pogues were best known for Fairytale of New York with Kirsty MacColl.

MacGowan insisted that it arose as a result of a wager made by the Pogues' producer at the time, Elvis Costello, that the band would not be able to write a Christmas hit single.

Here's how readers reacted.

Peter Dice Lyall said: "Get him to number one for Christmas," and Tom Metcalfe said: "Best Christmas song going."

 Colin Steel said the news was 'very sad' and Justine Fleming said it was a 'sad day.'

Liz Gradwell said: "Fairytale of New York will keep this legend alive."

Eleanor Heffernan said: "Rest in peace, so sad," and William Humes said: "I feel sorry for the family."

Other readers shared their sadness at Shane's death, including Paula Dickson, Kirsty Hull and June Bell.  

One web user said: "Rest easy Shane and thanks for the best Christmas lyric ever."

MacGowan and his wife Clarke had been together for more than 35 years.

They tied the knot in Denmark in November 2018. The intimate ceremony was attended by their close friend Johnny Depp, who also performed.