Tributes have poured in for the legendary Thin Lizzy guitarist Gary Moore who was found dead in a Spanish hotel on Sunday night.

The 58-year-old Belfast born musician is believed to have died in his sleep during a holiday on the Costa del Sol.

Blues hero Moore began life with Brush Shiels’ Skid Row but is best known for his three stints with Thin Lizzy and a very successful solo career.

Thin Lizzy drummer Brian Downey, currently on tour with the modern day line-up of the band, was shocked by his friend’s passing.

Downey said: “I am in total shock. I have known Gary since 1967 when he was in Platform Three and he’s been an amazing friend ever since.

“It was a pleasure to play with Gary again in 2006 after his days with Lizzy. He will always be in my thoughts and prayers and I just can’t believe he is gone.”

Moore was a close friend of Lizzy founder Phil Lynott and last played in Dublin at a 2006 gig to commemorate Lynott.

They combined for the 1979 hit ‘Parisienne Walkways’ while Moore was also close friends with Fleetwood Mac founder Peter Green.

Fellow Thin Lizzy guitarist Scott Gorham said: “Playing with Gary during the Black Rose era was a great experience. He was a great player and a great guy. I will miss him.”