DHAKA: Record producer Sir George Martin, known as the ‘fifth Beatle’, has died, aged 90.

His family thanked ‘everyone for their thoughts, prayers and messages of support’ after his death at home on Tuesday, his manager said, reports the BBC.

Beatles drummer Ringo Starr broke the news on Twitter and led tributes, saying Sir George ‘will be missed’.

Sir George signed The Beatles and produced more than 700 records.

He also worked with artists including Gerry and the Pacemakers, Dame Shirley Bassey and Cilla Black.

‘I have so many wonderful memories of this great man that will be with me forever,’ said Sir Paul McCartney in a statement on his website.

‘He was a true gentleman and like a second father to me. He guided the career of The Beatles with such skill and good humor that he became a true friend to me and my family. If anyone earned the title of the fifth Beatle it was George.’

‘From the day that he gave The Beatles our first recording contract, to the last time I saw him, he was the most generous, intelligent and musical person I've ever had the pleasure to know.’

Manager Adam Sharp said, ‘The family would like to thank everyone for their thoughts, prayers and messages of support’.

‘In a career that spanned seven decades, he was an inspiration to many and is recognized globally as one of music’s most creative talents. He was a true gentleman to the end.’

BDST: 1914 HRS, MAR 09, 2016
RR