Billie Barry - the founder of the famous Dublin stage school - has died.

In a statement her family say: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and dearest friend Billie Barry."

"She will be sadly missed by her loving children, David, Pat, Joan and Lorraine, grandchildren Debbie, Susan, Christopher, Vicky, Natalie, Robyn and Ryan, her loving companion Jim, 5 great-grandchildren, relatives and friends."

She died peacefully this morning at Beechlawn Nursing Home in Drumcondra.

The stage school was founded in 1964 by Ms Barry and is now run by her daughter, Lorraine.

Billie Barry became a household name due to the success of the school.

Past pupils include Jacinta Whyte, Angeline Ball, Susan McFadden, Brian McFadden, Mikey Graham, Samantha Mumba, Hilda Fay and Louise Bowden.

The school caters for students aged 3 to 20, providing lessons in dance, singing, theatrical performance, musical theatre and stagecraft.

Funeral arrangements for Ms Barry will be announced later.