Diana favourite Catherine Walker dies

(GETTY)

The fashion designer Catherine Walker, known for dressing some of the world's most glamorous women, has died, aged 65.

Walker died on Thursday at a hospital near her Sussex home following a long battle with breast cancer, her family said yesterday.

Although born in France, the mother of two made a name for herself in the UK as an award-winning couture designer, and provided Princess Diana with many of her most iconic outfits.

In a statement, her family said: "Catherine overcame young widowhood and fought cancer twice with enduring bravery. As a designer, she never worked within the conventional mould; she had no formal training, shunned the limelight throughout her career and never showed her collections on the runway."

A private family funeral service has been arranged. A memorial service will be held at a later date.