David Bowie's family making plans for 'private ceremony'

The family of the late rock icon David Bowie have announced they are making plans to hold a private ceremony to "celebrate the memory of their beloved husband, father and friend."

In the statement on David Bowie's official Facebook page featuring what is likely to be the last picture of the star, they thanked fans adding: "We are overwhelmed by and grateful for the love and support shown throughout the world."

The announcement came a day after it was revealed that Bowie, according to his wishes, was secretly cremated in New York shortly after his death.

The music legend apparently told his loved ones he wanted to "go without any fuss" and did not want a funeral or memorial service.

Apparently referring to plans to hold a memorial concert for the Starman singer in Carnegie Hall, New York, in March, the family said that while tributes were "welcome", none are official memorials endorsed by the family.