Amy Winehouse’s family have spoken of their loss after the singer was found dead in her London home aged just 27.

The Back To Black star was found by emergency services at her property in Camden on Saturday afternoon.

Her family said in a statement today: “Our family has been left bereft by the loss of Amy, a wonderful daughter, sister, niece. She leaves a gaping hole in our lives. We are coming together to remember her and we would appreciate some privacy and space at this terrible time.”

The singer battled drink and drugs problems during her career but the cause of death is not yet known and police have urged people not to speculate.

Her death is being treated as “unexplained” until a post-mortem examination, which will not be scheduled before tomorrow.

Winehouse’s mother Janis was quoted in the Sunday Mirror saying she had seen her daughter on Friday and her final words to her had been “I love you”.

She said: “She seemed out of it. But her passing so suddenly still hasn’t hit me.”

Father Mitch flew back from New York when he heard the news.

Tributes to Winehouse have poured in, including from comedian and former drug addict Russell Brand, who called her “a genius” and said addiction should be treated like a potentially fatal illness.

Her management company Metropolis Music released a statement which said: “We are trying to come to terms with the death of a dear friend and colleague, the most amazing artist and talent.

“We will always remember Amy as a vibrant, funny, caring young woman who made everyone around her feel welcome. We have lost a very special person, part of our family.”

Tributes have also been left at the police cordon surrounding Winehouse’s home in Camden Square.

These have included alcoholic drinks, cigarettes, soft toys, flowers, candles and pieces of artwork.

Meanwhile, sales of Winehouse’s records have soared in the day since her death.

Her critically acclaimed second album Back to Black re-entered the charts five years after its release.

The Official Charts Company said the Mark Ronson-produced LP made it to number 59 in the few hours between the singer’s death and the sales being counted.

Back to Black and Rehab, two singles from the album, have re-entered the singles chart at number 81 and 181 respectively.

Official Charts Company director Martin Talbot said: “Already the popularity of Amy’s music with the British public is being demonstrated, with sales of her albums rocketing by 37 times over the past 24 hours, according to Official Charts Company data.

“While Amy has already had an impact on the Official Charts, we would expect an even bigger impact to roll through over the coming days.

“Such a demonstration of her popularity is the best tribute the British public can pay to this extraordinary British talent.”

What are your memories of Amy Winehouse? What is your favourite song of hers? Do you think her unreleased third album should now be completed as a tribute? Add your comments below.