Christopher Biggins has paid tribute to Cilla Black, calling his friend "a national treasure".
Biggins described Black - whose death was reported earlier today (August 2) - as a "wonderful friend" and "a life force".
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"She was a wonderful friend," He said. "She was someone who was a life force, she loved to laugh and loved to enjoy herself.
"She will always be with me. She was a national treasure."
It was confirmed earlier today that Black had died at her Spanish home at the age of 72. It is thought the star died of natural causes.
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Celebrities such as Joan Collins, Barbara Windsor and Holly Willoughby have all paid tribute to the entertainer, television personality and music star, with good friend Paul O'Grady describing Black as being like his "sister".
O'Grady said: "Please tell me this isn't true? We've been friends for nearly 20 years. She's like my sister."
Cilla Black 1943-2015: Life of a showbiz icon in pictures:
Cilla Black 1943-2015: Life of a showbiz icon in pictures
