Legendary American country singer Dolly Parton dies aged 80

The heartbreaking announcement was made by the singer’s nephew Bryan Seaver, shocking fans across the globe.

Dolly connected to Oxfordshire through her children’s literacy charity, Imagination Library.

Partnering with local organisations, it provides free monthly books for young children across the county.

Her hit 9 to 5 musical has also been staged at the New Theatre, as well as productions by groups such as the Abingdon and Witney College.

Mr Seaver said: “As her head of security for more than two decades, a role my father Larry held before me, I have imagined the heaviness of this moment but haven’t truly felt it until now.”

“It is an honour, an honour that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness.

“But sadness lies with us, not with Dolly. Dolly has lived in the light and is in the arms of Jesus, surely met by Carl, her parents and countless others who have watched her and longed to meet her in the heavens.”

The star spent more than 65 years in the music industry, performing her well-known hits, including Jolene and Islands in the Stream.

Prior to the announcement of her death, she had been struggling with her health.