Sir Dave Dobbyn thanks fans for their support after revealing he has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease

Following his revelation last week that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, Sir Dave Dobbyn has thanked fans for their support.

Opening up about his diagnosis on Facebook, the Kiwi musical icon said: "I have felt a little shaky for a while now and in July I was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease."

The 65-year-old musician said the diagnosis has given him a "wider appreciation of life".

‌"Of late I have a tremor in my right hand which gives my guitar playing a new kind of twang. I have to do what I love, so it's business as usual and on with the show, singing all the way."

Overwhelmed by the outpouring of love he received, Dobbyn took to Facebook again to thank his fans.

"I am overwhelmed. Thank you for the words of encouragement and kindness. I have loved hearing how others are living with Parkinsons' Disease. The ❤️ emoji hit its target over and over.

"Thank you, sincerely, for the love. DD x"

Dobbyn burst onto the scene with Th' Dudes in 1979 and enjoyed further success with his band DD Smash and then as a solo artist.

His songs 'Slice of Heaven,' 'Loyal' and 'Whaling' are singalong favourites for Kiwis.