Richard Branson confirms his wife of fifty years has died

He took to Instagram to share the news

The British billionaire confirmed the news today (25 November), taking to Instagram to pay tribute.

In a social media post, Branson posted an image of his wife with the caption: "Heartbroken to share that Joan, my wife and partner for 50 years, has passed away.

"She was the most wonderful mum and grandmum our kids and grandkids could have ever wished for.

"She was my best friend, my rock, my guiding light, my world.

"Love you forever, Joan x."

Richard met Joan in 1976 and married in 1989 on Necker Island, the private property he owns in the British Virgin Islands.

The couple shared three children together.