The 1960s icon passed in London surrounded by family, according to a statement from her record promotion group.

Faithfull acted alongside Orson Welles, Oliver Reed, Alain Delon and Anna Karina during her time in Hollywood.

From solo success with As Tears Go By to starring in films such as The Girl On A Motorcycle and inspiring the songs of the Rolling Stones, Marianne Faithfull’s unconventional shape-shifting approach to music and film made her one of the most recognisable figures of the 1960s.

Rolling Stones frontman Sir Mick Jagger has paid tribute to “wonderful friend and beautiful singer” Marianne Faithfull following her death aged 78. He was joined by bandmates Ronnie Wood and Keith Richards, the latter with whom Sir Mick wrote Faithfull’s first single As Tears Go By, which reached number nine in the UK singles chart.

The late singer, known for a string of solo pop hits, was also the inspiration of several Rolling Stones classics

Rolling Stones frontman Sir Mick Jagger was joined by bandmates Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood who also shared their thoughts.

Singer and actress Marianne Faithfull has died at the age of 78, a spokesperson has said. Faithfull’s hits included As Tears Go By, which was written by The Rolling Stones’ Mick Jagger and Keith Richards.

The Rolling Stones were a rhythm and blues band. When singer Mick Jagger and guitarist Keith Richards wrote a gentle ballad, When Tears Go By, they dismissed it as a "piece of tripe". So Oldham gave it to Marianne Faithfull.

Marianne Faithfull has passed away at the age of 78, leaving behind a lasting legacy as an icon of the Swinging Sixties and beyond.

The Swinging Sixties star turned punk rock and cabaret legend reinvented herself several times throughout her eventful life.

She was in a relationship with Mick Jagger and was considered the "muse" of the Rolling Stones - She was known for hits such as "As Tears Go By", as well as for roles like in the film "The Girl On A M

Marianne Faithfull's life was one of the most colourful in rock and roll history, she dated Sir Mick Jagger and inspired some of the Rolling Stones' most iconic songs