Opera’s most famous name, Luciano Pavarotti, has died.

The 71-year-old Italian singer who brought classical music to the masses lost his year-long battle with pancreatic cancer in the early hours of today.

SEE ALSO – ‘Pavarotti at Llangollen’ picture gallery.

He was best known for his performance of Nessun Dorma, the anthem of the 1990 World Cup. He was also one of the famous three tenors.

In his 50-year-career, Pavarotti appeared in films, struck up a friendship with Diana Princess of Wales and raised millions of pounds for charity.

The larger-than-life star always acknowledged that the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod changed his life.

He sang at the eisteddfod with his father’s Modena choir in 1955 and on winning the eisteddfod decided to leave his teaching job for a career in music.

He said: “Britain is one of the most important countries for me, in my career generally. This is where the international career really began. I sang with the Modena choir in Llangollen, an incredible experience for a young kid.”

He made an emotional return to Llangollen 40 years later for a concert and to take the stage, with his father, as day president.

Mr Bob Attenburrow was eisteddfod secretary in 1995.

“It was a wonderful event. His performance in his concert was magic and his appearance on stage as day president will never be forgotten.

“He was very emotional and there was a tear in his eye as he introduced his father to the audience.

“He was tremendous to everyone back stage and so passionate about the competitions taking place that day that we had to physically retrain him from opening the stage door when he heard one choir.”

The star’s Diva tendencies were seen at Llangollen when he insisted that every flower was removed from the stage for his concert.

Recently he agreed to give his name to the Eisteddfod’s Choir of the World competition.

Choirs now compete for the Pavarotti Trophy, given to the eisteddfod by the tenor.

Chief executive of the eisteddfod, Mr Gwyn L Williams, said: “He was a very popular man and this is a very sad day.”

By Sue Austin