The singer’s family said she died on Thursday morning, surrounded by close members of her family.

Dame Vera is best known for hits such as “We’ll Meet Again”, released in 1939, which proved to be hugely popular among the public.

She said at the time: “It’s a good song as it goes with anyone, anywhere saying goodbye to someone.”

Dame Vera was also known for singing “The White Cliffs Of Dover”, “There’ll Always Be An England”, “I’ll Be Seeing You”, “Wishing” and “If Only I Had Wings”, to help raise British spirits during The Blitz.

In a statement, the family said: “The family are deeply saddened to announce the passing of one of Britain’s best-loved entertainers at the age of 103.”

During the U.K.’s nationwide lockdown to combat the spread of COVID-19, the Queen made reference to Dame Vera’s beloved wartime songs in a televised address as families and friends were separated from each other, telling the country: “We will meet again.”

In May 2020, Dame Vera became the oldest artist to attain a top 40 album in the UK.

In a 1947 profile of the singer, Newsweek called her a “British sweetheart”.

Ahead of the 75th anniversary of VE Day earlier this year, Dame Vera spoke of remembering “the brave boys and what they sacrificed for us”.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson paid tribute to Dame Vera, saying her voice had “uplifted the country in some of its darkest hours.”

He tweeted: “Dame Vera Lynn’s charm and magical voice entranced and uplifted our country in some of our darkest hours. Her voice will live on to lift the hearts of generations to come.”

Dame Vera remained an outspoken supporter of military veterans throughout her life.

The Royal British Legion, a charity providing support to members and veterans of the armed forces, said: “We are incredibly sad to hear of the passing of Dame Vera Lynn, an unforgettable British icon, symbol of hope to the Armed Forces Community past and present, and much loved longstanding Legion supporter. Our thoughts are with her loved ones.

Born in East Ham, east London, on March 20, 1917, Dame Vera performed for troops during World War II, often at great personal risk, in countries including Egypt, India and Burma.