Robbie Williams pays heartfelt tribute to manager David Enthoven

Robbie Williams is mourning the death of his long-time manager David Enthoven. Taking to social media, the Angels hitmaker revealed his heartbreak offer the passing of the man who he credited with saving his career.

In an emotional tweet he told his 2.5 million followers:"My Friend, Mentor and Hero passed away today. David Enthoven, I love you. RIP." The Mirror reports that Enthoven died after a short battle with liver cancer.

Enthoven had been managing Williams since he left Take That in 1996 and helped him battle addiction in the early years of his career. The industry veteran helped shape the careers of Brian Eno and Roxy Music after founding EG Records. He also managed and named the band T. Rex, founded by rocker Marc Bolan.

After establishing his company ie:music with partner Tim Clark, a former Island Records executive, in 1992, he worked with the likes of Sia, Lily Allen, Ladyhawke, Bryan Ferry and Will Young.

"His tenacity in fighting for artists' rights is the stuff of legend," Tim Clark told the Mirror. "He pricked the pompous, had a nickname for everyone but was so generous and kind too.

A statement from the MMF Music manager's forum read: "We are very sad that long-time manager and MMF supporter David Enthoven has passed away today after a short illness.

"David will be remembered as a true friend, an exemplary colleague, a helpful mentor and a truly exceptional human being.

Following news of Enthoven's death Jamie Cullum described him as "a real gentleman in the truest sense" while Pop singer Ladyhawke tweeted: "My manager and dear friend David Enthoven has passed away today," adding "He has been a true guiding light to me over the years, I'll miss you David."

Blur drummer, Dave Rowntree, also paid tribute, tweeting: "Really sorry to hear of the death of David Enthoven. He was a lovely man, and passionate about supporting musicians."