The Script guitarist Mark Sheehan dies aged 46

Mark Sheehan, the guitarist for 'The Script', has died at the age of 46 after a brief illness.

Sheehan formed the band alongside frontman Danny O’Donoghue and drummer Glen Power in 2001.

The Irish singer died in hospital earlier today (14 April).

“The family and group ask fans to respect their privacy at this tragic time.”

Fans and fellow celebrities have been paying tribute on social media, with Laura Whitmore writing: “Thinking of you all at this time. Mark was one of the nicest and most talented men you could meet x.”

While one fan said: “My heart is breaking for you guys and all of your family and loved ones. Rest in peace. Words can’t even explain. Sending all my love your way,” as a second wrote: “My heart just sank. Rest in peace.”

Another added: "My deepest condolences to Mark's friends and family during this difficult time. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers."

Someone else also said: "Omg! This is so heartbreaking. Sending prayers to the family and the band."

The singer told the Sunday World: "It’s his story to tell, but yeah, I guess if I could paraphrase, his children needed a father and his wife needed a husband.

"He's been the engine of The Script for such a long time, [I told him] that 'if you want to take a bit of time out for your family you are more than welcome to, and I insist on you going and doing it'.

"He took a little bit of time off. ‘You get refreshed, then you come back with a new zest for life’. And I believe it was the best thing that could have happened for all of us."

Sheehan spoke openly about the love he has for his wife Rina.

"Rina is from Texas - we met on the road," he once said. "I was producing and working in different studios and she was a studio session singer and backing singer.

"And we just kind of clicked in the usual way you do."

The couple have three children, Cameron, Avery, and Lil.