LSO conductor Sir Colin Davis dies

In a statement, the LSO said Sir Colin's "role in British musical life was immense" (PA)

Conductor Sir Colin Davis has died at the age of 85, the London Symphony Orchestra has announced.

Sir Colin first conducted the LSO in 1959, and became the longest-serving principal conductor in the orchestra's history, serving for more than 10 years after his appointment in 1995.

In a statement, the LSO said his "role in British musical life was immense". It added: "His musicianship and his humanity have been cherished by musicians and audiences alike. Music lovers across the world have been inspired by his performances and recordings."

Sir Colin had also been the chief conductor of the BBC Symphony Orchestra between 1967-71 and had links to the Royal Opera House and the English Chamber Orchestra. He became the LSO's ninth president in 2007.

Born in Weybridge, Surrey, in 1927, Sir Colin studied initially as a clarinettist. In 1957 he became assistant conductor of the BBC Scottish Orchestra.

He was knighted in 1980 and received the Queen's Medal for Music in 2009. He also won many international honours and was renowned for his interpretations of Mozart, Sibelius and Berlioz.

"He will be remembered with huge affection and admiration by the LSO," the statement added.

The LSO said in its statement that Sir Colin died after a short illness.