Pop icon Craig Douglas' death marks end of an era

Craig Douglas, the singer behind the famous hit Only Sixteen has died aged 85.

Craig, whose real name was Terence Perkins, became a well known singer in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

His version of Only Sixteen became a huge hit and even sold more copies than Sam Cooke’s original song.

His family confirmed that he died peacefully at home after a short illness.

The statement read: “It is with great sadness that I have to inform you that Craig peacefully passed away this afternoon. He will be greatly missed by myself, his family, and his close friends. Rest in peace, Craig.”

Craig enjoyed huge success during his best years as his records sold so well that he even outsold famous stars such as Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley.

He also appeared in the 1962 film It's Trad, Dad! and performed at the Beatles’ first major stage show.

Craig kept singing for many years after his biggest hits. He performed in clubs, on cruise ships and at venues across the UK.

In 2024, he spoke about his life and shared one regret.

“Well, I didn't get married to start with, which was a shame..

“I would have liked to have had a couple of children, but if I had, I'd miss them like mad while I was away”.