'Fifth Beatle' George Martin Dies Aged 90

'God bless George Martin peace and love to Judy and his family ... Thank you for all your love and kindness George peace and love xx,' he tweeted, without offering further details.

The 90-year-old producer, whose career spanned six decades, became known as 'the fifth Beatle' for signing and working with the band who have achieved major chart success.

Fans responded on social media to the news of Martin's death with messages of love and sympathy.

Among them was Sean Ono Lennon, son of Beatle John Lennon, who tweeted: "RIP George Martin. I'm so gutted I don't have many words."