Sarah Ferguson has sent a heartfelt message to her “dear friend Sharon Osbourne” after today’s tragic news.

Heavy metal legend Ozzy Osbourne died on Tuesday morning at the age of 76, with his wife and children issuing a joint family statement.

The Osbournes said: “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning.

“He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time.”

The statement was signed by Sharon and the couple’s children, Aimee, Kelly, Jack and Louis.

The Duchess of York, 65, took to social media to express her sadness at the news.

She wrote: “Heartbroken to hear of Ozzy’s passing. A true legend, and a gentle soul beneath the wild spirit.

“My love and deepest condolences to my dear friend Sharon and all the family.

“Rest in peace, Ozzy – your music and magic will live on forever.”

Less than three weeks ago, Ozzy performed from a throne on stage at the home of his beloved football club, Aston Villa.

During the concert, he told fans: “You’ve no idea how I feel – thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

It was a gig put together with performances from some of his favourite acts, including Guns’n’Roses and Metallica, for the 76-year-old’s “final bow”.

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Ozzy was a globally acclaimed music legend who rose to prominence as the founding member and lead singer of the band Black Sabbath in 1968.

The band pioneered the heavy metal genre, producing iconic tracks such as Paranoid, Iron Man and Heaven & Hell.

English songwriting icon Sir Elton John shared a touching tribute to the singer on Instagram: “So sad to hear the news of @ozzyosbourne passing away.