James Last dies aged 86

ONE of the last of the celebrated big band leaders, James Last, has died at home in Florida. He was 86 years old.
The German-born composer and conductor was much-loved for his cheerful orchestrations of pop hits, with millions of albums sold, and was a regular on British television.
After becoming seriously ill last year, he played a farewell tour for his legion of fans, including a performance at the Royal Albert Hall.
A statement from his manager said he died peacefully and surrounded by his family.