A regional daily has apologised for publishing the wrong photograph alongisde an obituary to a singer who has died aged 56.

The Manchester Evening News has blamed a “picture archive error” after the incorrect photo was published to accompany a tribute piece to Denise Johnson yesterday.

The Manchester-based singer worked alongside artists including Primal Scream, New Order and Johnny Marr during her career.

The apology appeared in today’s edition of the MEN.

In addition, editor Darren Thwaites posted on Twitter: “You’re right to expect better from the Manchester Evening News after we used the wrong photo in the printed version of our tribute following the sad death of Denise Johnson.

“Our explanation is not an excuse and we’re genuinely and sincerely sorry for the upset caused. We have an honest team truly mortified by the mistake.

“We’re now compiling a lengthy and lasting tribute article which will be published this weekend.

“We sincerely hope it will capture the essence of Denise, an incredible singer, Mancunian role model and great friend to so many, including the Manchester Evening News.”