Reg Presley has died.

The Troggs singer passed away at his home in Hampshire, South England yesterday (04.02.13), aged 71 after losing a battle with lung cancer and was surrounded by his loved ones as he died, his friend Keith Altham has revealed.

Keith wrote on his Facebook page: ''My dear old pal Reg Presley of The Troggs died today at 1.00, surrounded by family and friends at his home in Andover following a succession of recent strokes and a losing battle with cancer.

''He was one very real person in a sometimes very unreal world. Our thoughts are with his wife Brenda and the the family and those legion of fans who loved his music and his band. I will miss him hugely.''

The 'Wild Thing' hitmaker's daughter Karen said she ws ''heartbroken'' by his passing.

She said: ''He passed away peacefully at home and myself, my brother and our mother were with him. We're absolutely heartbroken.''

Reg was admitted to hospital in December 2011 after suffering a suspected stroke, and a month later announced his retirement from music following a diagnosis of lung cancer.

The 'Love Is All Around' singer said at the time: ''I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for the cards and calls and for your love, loyalty and support over the years.

''I shall miss you all.''

Reg founded The Troggs in the early 1960s and their hits included 'With A Girl Like You' and 'I Can't Control Myself'.