Legendary conductor Sir Colin Davis, who lived in Weybridge as a child, died over the weekend, aged 85, following a short illness.

London Symphony Orchestra (LSO) announced the news of his death on Sunday, April 14, in a statement on its website and said: “It is with deep sadness that the LSO announces the death of its esteemed President, Sir Colin Davis.

“He will be remembered with huge affection and admiration by the LSO and our thoughts are with his family at this time.”

The conductor was unable to perform at the Queen’s diamond jubilee concert in June, after suffering from a similar illness.

Surrey-born Sir Colin lived in Weybridge as a child and studied clarinet at London’s Royal College of Music before leaving for military service.

His illustrious conducting career began in 1957 when he assumed the role of assistant conductor with the BBC Scottish Symphony orchestra.

Sir Colin enjoyed success as a musical director and was knighted in 1980, before going on to claim esteemed International awards from Germany, Italy, France, Denmark and Finland.

The conductor also won the Classic Male Artist of the Year trophy at the Brits and was renowned for his interpretations of Mozart, Sibelius and Berlioz.

Sir Colin held the title of longest-serving principal conductor with the London Symphony Orchestra, from 1995 until his death, and also enjoyed time as guest principal conductor in America with both the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the New York Philharmonic.

His musicianship and his humanity have been cherished by musicians and audiences alike.

Several singers and musicians have taken to Twitter to pay their respects, including Welsh opera singer Katherine Jenkins, who wrote: “RIP Sir Colin Davis, very sad news.”