TRIBUTES have been paid to Pogues' frontman Shane MacGowan, who has died aged 65.

The singer-songwriter, whose hits include 1987's Fairytale of New York and A Pair of Brown Eyes, had been unwell for some time after being diagnosed with viral encephalitis last year.

On Instagram, his wife Victoria Mary Clarke said he "meant the world to me".

She added: "I am blessed beyond words to have met him and to have loved him and to have been so endlessly and unconditionally loved by him and to have had so many years of life and love and joy and fun and laughter and so many adventures.

"There's no way to describe the loss that I am feeling and the longing for just one more of his smiles that lit up my world."

People in Bradford have also expressed their sadness at the news.

On our Facebook page, Sandra Lynn Woodhead said: "RIP Shane, you will be missed. Condolences to family and friends."

Ashley Charma commented: "Rest in power, Shane."

Joanne Lee added: "So sad."

A statement from Mr MacGowan's spokesperson confirmed he died peacefully at 3.30am today with his wife and and sister by his side.

"Prayers and the last rites were read during his passing," he added.