John Lennon remembered across the world on what would have been 70th birthday

Fans around the world today are remembering the late Beatle - who would be turning 70.

Liverpool, New York and Iceland are all putting on events today (October 9) to remember John Lennon on what would have been the music legend's 70th birthday.

His widow Yoko Ono is leading the celebration in Reykjavik where among the events will be a performance of the Yoko Ono Plastic Ono Band alongside their son Sean.

She will also present awards to those who have contributed to world peace and switch on the Imagine Peace Tower which will remain on in the Icelandic capital until December 8 - the anniversary of Lennon's death.

At the event she is expected to ask fans to send a million messages of peace by post email or social networks. She is also due to read a message saying:

"He had a very painful childhood in which he hardly saw his mother or his father. But, later, he managed to turn his pain around to give the world many beautiful songs and important messages which changed our heads and the way of our lives.

"I know John was not expecting so much love to still come from you. But he would have been very happy to know it.

"May all of us heal ourselves and learn to love each other in peace."

Three time capsules are also being buried in Liverpool, Ohio and Reykjavik as part of the celebrations.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is doing it to 'carry his legacy to future generations'.

They won't be opened until the October 9 2040.

John Lennon was shot outside his New York home in 1980 by Mark Chapman.