MUMBAI: Singer Mel B has announced that her father Martin Brown has passed away at the age of 63 after a five-year battle with cancer.

Mel B took to Instagram to share the news on 5 March, reports dailymail.co.uk.

Alongside a black and white photograph of her and her sister holding their father's hands, Mel B wrote: "It is with great sadness after a five-year battle to multiple myeloma cancer, our loving father Martin Brown passed away aged 63 peacefully yesterday (March 4).

"Both of us, his children, were by his side and would like to say thank you to St Gemma's and all the doctors and nurses for their amazing care and support over the years."

Mel B further requested all to respect privacy.

"Please respect our privacy and let us as a united family grieve. With love and respect. Melanie and Danielle Brown," she wrote.

(Source: IANS)