The 40-year-long career of legendary Belfast blues guitarist Gary Moore ended last night, as he died in his sleep while on holiday.

Robert William Gary Moore, 58, grew up off the Upper Newtownards Road in east Belfast. He was one of the most famous and influential blues guitarists in the world and died in his Kempinski hotel room in Estepona, Spain after enjoying a night out with a female companion.

Sir Bob Geldof has joined colleagues, fans, and music critics, to pay tribute to Gary who was one of the founding members of legendary band Thin Lizzy before embarking in a successful solo career.

Responding to the news of his passing, Sir Bob said Moore was "without question, one of the great Irish bluesmen".

"His playing was exceptional and beautiful. We won't see his like again," he said

Upcoming blues star Joe Bonomassa, who shared a volatile relationship with the opinionated Moore said magnanimously this morning "what a horrible way to start today".

"My friend and guitar hero Gary Moore has died. He was the best… Please pray for his family. Awful news."

Moore had raised controversy for criticising Bonomassa's playing during an interview with Guitarist magazine.

Meanwhile, Gary's official website this morning said: "It is with deep sorrow and regret, that we have to announce that Gary Moore passed away while on holiday in Spain last night. Our thoughts are with his children, family and friends at this sad time. Gary Moore, RIP."

During his career, Moore collaborated with a broad range of artists including George Harrison, Albert Collins, Ginger Baker, the Beach Boys, Ozzy Osbourne and Andrew Lloyd Webber on the composer's Variations (album) in 1977.

East Belfast DUP MLA Robin Newton has expressed his sadness at hearing of the passing of the guitar legend and east Belfast man and said that he was a local boy who made good and was most renowned for his time with the world famous rock band Thin Lizzy.

"Gary was known worldwide as being a guitarist of the highest quality, recognized for his mastery of the blues rock genre.

"Although best known for his time in the band Thin Lizzy he was a highly acclaimed solo artist and was actively involved in the music industry.

"It is always with a heavy heart that I learnt of the passing of another east Belfast legend.

"However, the memory of Gary Moore will live long in the hearts of his fans and his legacy within the rock industry will be preserved forever. I wish to pass on my condolences to his family, friends and his legion of fans at this sad time," said the Stormont Junior Minister.

See: Obituary - Gary Moore

(DW/BMcC)