Gary Moore dies aged 58

Guitarist Gary Moore has died at the age of 58.

The former Thin Lizzy rocker was found dead in his hotel room in the early hours of yesterday morning (06.02.11) by his girlfriend and it is thought he died after chocking on his own vomit after knocking back champagne and brandy while holidaying in the Costa del Sol.

An ambulance source told The Sun newspaper: "We believe the deceased had been drinking heavily."

Thin Lizzy's management said of the sad news: "Our thoughts go out to Gary's family at this time. Our memories of Gary and his contribution to Thin Lizzy and music in general will live on forever."

As well as starring in the band famous for such hits as 'The Boys Are Back In Town' and 'Whiskey In The Jar', he also had an illustrious solo career.

The Northern Irish-born star first started out at the age of 16 when he joined group Skid Row, which featured Phil Lynott as lead vocalist.

He then joined Thin Lizzy with Phil before moving on to pursue a successful solo career as a blues artist, releasing the hit albums 'Grinding Stone' and 'Lynott'.

Eric Bell, who Gary replaced in Thin Lizzy said he was "in shock" over his death.

He added: "I still can't believe it. He was so robust, he wasn't a rock casualty, he was a healthy guy. He was a superb player and a dedicated musician."

Scott Gorham - who is in the band's current line-up - 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."

Throughout his career he performed on stage with a range of major artists and in the late 1970s made a brief return to Thin Lizzy.

He leaves behind two sons and a daughter.