The family of George Michael have shared a moving message with fans ahead of the sixth anniversary of his death. 

In a message shared on social media, the late star’s sister Yioda, father Jack and former manager David asked fans to remember “how precious life is” and be “grateful for happy times”.

“Hello Friends, Lovelies and Fans everywhere, ” they penned. “I cannot quite believe that another year has passed since I was thinking about what to write in our Christmas message for 2021, but here we are again, after another year, getting ready to spend time with our friends and families and wondering where the time has gone…

“It will be six years on Christmas Day since we lost George and three since we lost Melanie. Life goes on but our memories of the two of them keep them with us every single day in our hearts.

“In 2009 in December Song’, George sang about his dreams of Christmas as a little boy: ‘There was always Christmas time, to wipe the year away,” the trio continued.

“It is a blessing that the very worst times with the pandemic are past for most of us, but this year has been a terrible and troubled one for so many people all over the world, reminding us yet again how precious life is.

“So as we wipe away 2022, we are so grateful for happy times and we are praying for a more peaceful and positive year to come.

“As always, this Christmas we send you our thanks and appreciation for your ongoing love and loyalty to George and his music and wish for you all in 2023 a year that brings happy, healthy days.

“Keep dreaming of Christmas! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Yioda, Jack and David xxx.”

Last Christmas currently sits at No. 1 on the UK charts, with the singer’s Estate celebrating it’s return to the top in a separate post. 

“We’re absolutely thrilled to see ‘Last Christmas’ by WHAM! has once again hit the Number 1 spot on the Official UK Charts,” they penned. 

“Thank you for all the love and support you continue to show the song.”