Joan Branson has died. Her husband, Sir Richard Branson, took to social media to announce the devastating news.

Sharing a heartbreaking statement on Instagram , he wrote: "Heartbroken to share that Joan, my wife and partner for 50 years, has passed away. She was the most wonderful mum and grandmum our kids and grandkids could have ever wished for.

"She was my best friend, my rock, my guiding light, my world . Love you forever, Joan x."

Lady Joan was 80, with her and Sir Richard sharing two children together. She has long been credited as the 'rock' to the billionaire and his 'source of wisdom'. They were set to celebrate their 50th anniversary in February next year.

Many followers took to the comments section of his post to share their own devastation and messages of condolence.

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