Chris Rea shared a poignant social media post in the hours before his death

Rea's post feature a car on a snowy motorway with a road sign that read: "Driving home for Christmas with a thousand memories."

He added the caption: "Top to toe in tailbacks. If it's a white Christmas, let's hope the journey is a smooth one."

Chris' death was announced by with "immense sadness" by his family just three days before Christmas.

A statement from his wife Joan and their daughters read: "It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Chris.

"He passed away peacefully in hospital earlier today following a short illness, surrounded by his family."

Chris was born and raised in Middlesbrough and the town's mayor led tributes to the star - whose other hits included On the Beach and The Road to Hell.

Chris Cooke said in a statement: "This is really sad news and my thoughts go out to Chris' loved ones.

"Chris Rea was deeply proud of his Middlesbrough roots and the people of our town were equally proud to call him one of their own.

"Millions of people around the world will listen to his music tonight. His songs helped put Middlesbrough on the map and he leaves behind a legacy."

Rea was also described a "Teesside icon" by Middlesbrough FC - having recorded a new version of his song Let's Dance with comedian and fellow Boro fan Bob Mortimer to mark the team's appearance in the 1997 FA Cup final.

The club wrote: "We're deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Chris Rea.

"A Teesside icon. Rest in peace, Chris."

TV personality Lizzie Cundy also shared a tribute to Rea after appearing in a charity music video for Driving Home for Christmas in 2009.

She wrote on social media: "I'm so sad to hear Chris Rea has died. I was lucky enough to star in his music video Driving Home for Christmas.

"I loved every minute and was an honour to work with him and be in his iconic music video. He will always be an inspiration and legend to me. Rest in peace Chris."