Thin Lizzy guitarist Gary Moore has died while on holiday in Spain.

Moore – who made his name with the Irish hard rock band in the 1970s – died in a hotel on the Costa Del Sol on Saturday night his representatives confirmed.

He also maintained a successful solo career while away from the band, being recognised for his distinctive blues style.

The lead guitarist received critical acclaim for his work on the 1974 Thin Lizzy album, Nightlife.

However, as a musician from the age of 13, his restless temperament ensured he would soon branch out into diverse areas.

His first solo album Grinding Stone and his virtuoso playing made him a recognised artist in his own right.

Although returning to Thin Lizzy briefly in the late 1970s, his solo work continued to garner interest and he also enjoyed UK chart success with Lynott, via singles Parisienne Walkways and Out In The Fields.