The Cranberries singer Dolores O'Riordan has died suddenly at a hotel aged 46, her publicist has confirmed.

The Irish rock star, who has recently been performing with a band called D.A.R.K, was staying in London while recording.

Her publicist did not comment on how she died, other than saying it was 'sudden' and that her family are "devastated".

A statement from her publicist said: "Irish and international singer Dolores O'Riordan has died suddenly in London today. She was 46 years old.

The lead singer with the Irish band The Cranberries was in London for a short recording session. No further details are available at this time.

"Family members are devastated to hear the breaking news and have requested privacy at this very difficult time."

O'Riordan, who was born in Limerick, last posted a picture of herself with her cat on Twitter on January 4 with the caption: "Bye bye Gio. We're off to Ireland."

Her band had recently played in South America, and she tweeted pictures of fans in Lima, Peru in December.

The Cranberries last released an album in early 2017, but a US and European tour was cancelled in July due to health reasons concerning O'Riordan.

In a statement, the band explained that she was suffering from an "ongoing back problem" and that doctors had advised her to pull out of all her upcoming gigs.

O'Riordan found fame in the 1990s when her band shot to fame with hits including Zombie and Linger.