United Kingdom, Dec. 22 -- Chris Rhea has died "peacefully in hospital" days before Christmas.

The singer-songwriter - famed for his festive hit Driving Home For Christmas - passed away on Monday (22.12.25) aged 74 following a short illness and was surrounded by his loved ones, according to a statement released on behalf of his family.

The statement 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."

Rea was born in Middlesbrough and didn't start making music until he was in his 20s when he learned to play the guitar and joined several local bands before landing a solo record deal with Magnet Records....