Riverside, CA: Husband of US singer Etta James granted money for care

The husband of US blues legend Etta James can use some of her savings to pay for the ailing singer's health care, a judge in California has ruled.

Riverside County superior court judge Thomas Cahraman said the $60,000 (£37,580) granted to Artis Mills should last until 24 February.

Mr Mills is also challenging a claim by James's son, Donto, that his mother gave him power of attorney.

Mr Mills is expected to return to court next month to apply for more funds.

Singer James, known for her hit ballad At Last, has been diagnosed with dementia and is undergoing treatment for leukaemia.

Mr Mills claims she has become too sick to manage her own money.

A doctor has also stated the star needs help with eating, dressing and cannot sign her own name.

Donto wrote in his court declaration that he does not object to money being released for his mother's medical care.

But he has requested it to be overseen by a third party "to avoid present and future family conflict and discrepancies".

James has been out of the public eye since January last year when she was admitted to hospital after suffering from various ailments, including a blood infection.

She became ill while in a clinic for treatment to an addiction to painkillers and other medicines.

James is the winner of four Grammy awards and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1993.

In the 2008 film Cadillac Records, she was portrayed by the singer Beyonce Knowles.