A foundation dedicated to the memory of Amy Winehouse officially launches today on what would have been her 28th birthday .

The Amy Winehouse Foundation has been set up by her father Mitch, who has previously advised the government on drug policy.

The star, famous for her song Rehab, fought a well-publicised battle with alcohol and substance abuse, although toxicology tests showed that she did not have illegal drugs in her system when she died in July.

Her father said he hoped the organisation would "support charitable activities in both the UK and abroad that provide help, support or care for young people, especially those who are in need by reason of ill health, disability, financial disadvantage or addiction."

In an interview this week he added: "It seemed appropriate that the focus of our work should be with young people, those who are vulnerable either through ill health or circumstance."

He said his daughter had "touched millions" through her career and that the foundation would help her continue to do so.

One source of funding for the foundation will be the proceeds from the release of the jazz track Body and Soul, recorded by Ms Winehouse and Tony Bennett in March.