Dario G star Paul Spencer has died aged 53 following battle with cancer

DJ and producer Paul Spencer, who was known as Dario G, has died at the age of 53, following his battle with cancer.

A post to his social media page on Monday said: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Paul Spencer earlier today.

"He was positive until the end but this was one battle he could not fight anymore. He leaves behind a wonderful musical legacy and many happy memories for many people. He will be sadly missed by everyone who loved him."

Dario G was originally a trio comprising Spencer and fellow DJs Scott Rosser and Stephen Spencer, named after the manager of Crewe Alexandra football club at the time, Dario Gradi.

In recent years Spencer, who was born in Crewe, England, had been using Dario G as the stage name for his solo act.

The original group were best known for their debut single, ‘Sunchyme’, which reached number 2 in the UK singles chart in 1997.

A year later the trio released 'Carnaval de Paris' for the 1998 World Cup in France, with the track reaching number 5 in the UK singles chart.

In the comments of the Instagram post fellow DJ Sigala, who is known for hits including 'Came Here For Love' and 'Sweet Lovin’', said Spencer had encouraged him to get checked for cancer.

“That’s so sad. A true inspiration, he brought joy to so many people and will live on forever through his music,” Sigala said.

“Paul told me many times over the last year “Go get yourself checked” so I’m passing on that message to anyone reading this, as I’m sure he would want me to. Our health should be more of a priority!”

Macmillan Cancer Support paid their respects under the post and said that Spencer “was incredibly kind and will be missed by everyone who knew him.”

The producer released a charity single in October last year, ‘Savour the Miracle of Life’, with all profits from the song being donated to Macmillan Cancer Support.

This was the first track the producer made which featured his own lead vocals and said at the time the lyrics were “very emotional and poignant” to his current state of health.

Derry Girls creator Lisa McGee has also paid tribute to the DJ, whose music featured in the final episode of the show.

Oh God this is so sad. Thank you for the light you brought into our lives. This track is an incredibly special one for me personally. Go well xxx https://t.co/QdSWhGbxX0

— Lisa McGee (@LisaMMcGee) June 17, 2024