Dave Edmunds known for his 1970 Christmas No.1 I Hear You Knocking, is reportedly in intensive care following a medical emergency which has left him with brain damage. The Welsh-born singer, 81, is said to have died before being revived. His heartbroken wife of 40 years CiCi Edmunds shared an emotional post on Facebook on July 29. Detailing the incident at their home in Rockfield, Monmouthshire, Cici told how she tried to “keep him alive” by clearing his airways of fluids. She said a nurse performed “heavy CPR” on him at their home in Rockfield, Monmouthshire. Cici said the nurse was “pumping away really hard performing heavy CPR” but told her ‘Cici I’m gonna stop. Dave is gone. He is dead”.

Cici said she refused to give up on her beloved husband in the candid message as she urged fans to send prayers and messages of support to Dave as she explained he is critically ill in hospital. She added that he “very clearly” has brain damage and memory loss, and is at “high risk” of having another cardiac arrest. On how the experience affected her, she said: “I’m still in shock and I believe I have PTSD from the horrific experience. My brilliant talented funny and special Dave could really use as many peoples prayers and good wishes so to speak.”

Concluding her detailed post, she added: “Thank you all for your support and well wishes. It means the world to me. Dave will have a very long journey ahead of him if he survives. We both have.

“But knowing that there are kind hearted people such as you all. Makes this tremendously difficult journey a little easier. Bless you all. Sending you all much love and light and always.”

Fans rushed to offer their support in the comment section as many offered their well wishes.

One wrote: “All my love, support and prayers to Dave, and please stay on your road to recovery, CiCi.”

Another commented: “Deepest heartfelt prayers for Dave, praying for a miracle.”

A third added: “Hi Cici. This is such sad news. Our thoughts are with you in such trying times.”

Cardiff-born Dave had many hits in the 1970s and early 80s with tracks including Slipping Away, The Promised Land and Girls Talk.

He formed Love Sculpture, who released their debut single in 1968, before going solo and has worked with stars including Sir Paul McCartney and Nick Lowe.

Dave went on to have a Christmas number 1 UK single with his cover of Smiley Lewis’ I Hear You Knocking, which sold three million copies and even reached No. 4 in the US.

He married Swedish wife Cecilia (Cici) back in 1983, and they live in Monmouth, Wales.