Hip-hop icon Samantha Lawrence has died aged 55

A statement from the performer's loved ones said: "It is with great sadness that we announce that beloved sister and mother Samantha Lawrence passed away on Sunday.

"Samantha, aka TY Tim, was known for her chart success with Wee Papa Girl Rappers, a hip-hop pop duo that she founded with her older sister Sandra Lawrence, aka Total S."

Wee Papa Girl Rappers' hit song 'Wee Rule' reached number six in the UK singles chart in 1988 and was a smash hit across Europe.

Tributes have been pouring in for Samantha since news of her death broke, including from DJ Dave Pearce who worked with the duo.

He said: "Sam was part of a defining and groundbreaking era of trailblazing British female rappers who against the odds conquered the UK charts alongside the likes of Cookie Crew.

"It was a really exciting time for me and always a pleasure to work with them on my Radio London hip-hop show back in the day, their positive energy was infectious.

"Always keen to experiment, they fused dancehall with reggae with Wee Rule and stepped into the house arena courtesy of Kevin Saunderson's remix of 'Heat it Up'.

"Through her success, Sam will have inspired others to follow their dreams. I'm glad I had the chance to remind her of that recently.

"Thoughts with her sister Sandra and daughter KeeKee. Rest In Peace."

Samantha and Sandra were born in Hammersmith, west London, and brought up in South Ealing and Acton.

They released two albums and split up in 1991 before reuniting for further work.