Sir George Shearing dies at 91

Sir George Shearing, one of the world's most influential and beloved jazz pianists and composers, has passed away of heart failure at the age of 91.

Born in Battersea, London, the Anglo-American musician is best known for his song Lullaby of Birdland and produced more than 300 titles over the course of his career.

Sir George, who was blind from birth and was based in New York for more than six decades, worked with a number of leading talents, including Nat King Cole, Mel Torme, Peggy Lee and Sarah Vaughan.

Made an OBE in 1996 and knighted in 2007 at Buckingham Palace, the jazz pianist who was performing in his 80s, was also given a lifetime achievement award at the BBC Jazz Awards in 2003.

Speaking of his knighthood at the time, he said: "Receiving such an honour as a knighthood might also show young people what can be achieved in life if one learns his craft and follows his dreams."