Sir Richard Branson announced the news his wife of 50 years has sadly died aged 80 in a heartbreaking post shared on Instagram today. The entrepreneur has been flooded with messages of support from celebrity pals and fans alike. The Virgin tycoon, 75, penned an emotional message on Tuesday telling fans he had lost his "best friend". The dad-of-three took to the picture sharing site and 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."

He finished: "Love you forever, Joan x." His statement was accompanied by a professional photo of his wife. But just days before Sir Richard had shared a final

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