The mother of music mogul Simon Cowell, Julie Cowell, has died at the age of 89, it was announced today.

The family said they were heartbroken and would “miss her terribly”.

Julie Cowell at a recording of Britain's Got Talent
Julie Cowell, mother of Simon, has died at the age of 89 (Lewis Whyld/PA)

A spokesman for them confirmed that Mrs Cowell died today.

They said: “Today our beloved mum Julie passed away. Anyone who had met her would know what a truly special and kind lady she was. We are heartbroken and will miss her terribly, but she is now at peace.”

Mrs Cowell was the mother of four boys – Nicholas, Simon, Tony and Michael, and step-mother to John and June.