Franco's daughter Carmen dies from cancer

Carmen Franco was born in Oviedo, Asturias in 1926 and her cancer was at stage four when diagnosed in summer.

Her own daughter, Carmen Martínez Bordiú, told Spain's main television channel TVE that her mother's health had deteriorated rapidly and that a priest had been to see her.

Numerous family members and friends went in to see her at her home on the C/ Hermanos Bécquer this morning after hearing the news that she did not have long left.

Carmen Franco's grandson Luis Alfonso de Borbón posted a photograph of himself and his grandmother on Instagram, captioned: “God has taken 'Man' (RIP), but she has not gone: I'll always have her in my heart.

“She tiptoed by for 91 years, leaving a fabulous memory for everyone who knew her, and for me, an enormous hole in my life.

“I'm impressed by the great lady you always were, by your savoir-faire, your elegance, your integrity, your serenity, your happiness, your patience, your sincerity, your strength and your open mind.”

Luis Alfonso lived with his grandmother for many years after his parents separated and his father, the Duke of Cádiz, died, followed by his brother Francisco de Asís.

“Darling 'Man', you'll always be my Supergran, my second mum, one of my pillars and my example to follow – you were a great Christian with many values and very generous; you loved to travel and discover other places; you were one of the most educated and cultured people I knew, with a great memory and always knowledgeable about everything; we shared hobbies such as enjoying nature and watching football – the Spanish national team and Real Madrid […] If I had to define you, I'd repeat what my cousin always said: “'Man' is 'Man'.” I love you very much.”