Thin Lizzy guitarist Gary Moore found dead in Costa hotel

The 58-year-old, originally from Belfast, was found dead in a hotel room on the Costa del Sol.

Thin Lizzy founding member Brian Downey last night paid tribute to his friend. "I am in total shock," he said. "He will always be in my thoughts and prayers, and I just can't believe he is gone."

Moore had a successful solo career but it was for his time in Thin Lizzy that he will be best remembered.

He joined the band in 1973 after the sudden departure of guitarist Eric Bell, but only played with them for four months.

Four years later he returned, and went on to play on the Black Rose album.

Scott Gorham, Thin Lizzy guitarist, said it had been a pleasure to share a stage with him. "Playing with Gary during the Black Rose era was a great experience, he was a great player and a great guy," he said. "I will miss him."

Thin Lizzy's legendary frontman Phil Lynnot died in 1986.

The band reformed at various times since then and continues to tour today.

Moore last played with some of his former bandmates in 2006.