Jacqueline Gold, the boss of lingerie retailer Ann Summers,  has died at the age of 62 after a long battle with breast cancer.

She died on Thursday surrounded by her family after seven years of treatment for the disease.

Her death comes just two months after her father, David Gold, the joint-chairman of West Ham United, died. He also founded Ann Summers with his brother.

Gold was made an CBE in the 2016 New Year Honours for services to entrepreneurship, women in business and social enterprise.

A statement said: “It is with unspeakable sadness that Ann Summers confirm our amazing executive chair Jacqueline Gold CBE passed away yesterday evening with her husband Dan, daughter Scarlett, sister Vanessa, and brother-in-law Nick, by her side.”

Her sister Vanessa said: “Jacqueline courageously battled stage four breast cancer for seven years and was an absolute warrior throughout her cancer journey.”

The family statement added: “Jacqueline is best-known for founding Ann Summers and leading a business run by women, for women.

“She was also an activist for women in business, and championed female entrepreneurs with the ambition to better the working environment for women.

“From an internship to chief executive officer in less than 10 years, her determination and commitment to creating a unique retail offering led to the creation of a multi-channel retail chain, consisting of retail stores, direct sales ambassadors, and a fast growing online and third-party business.

“It is her vision and creativity that saw Ann Summers grow from an unknown brand to a British household name and staple of the British high street.

“In recognition of Jacqueline's significant achievements during her 40-year career, she was awarded a CBE in the 2016 New Year Honours for services to entrepreneurship, women in business and social enterprise.”