Horslips guitarist Johnny Fean dies aged 71

The legendary Irish band described Fean as "our best friend, our creative collaborator, our guitar hero", and the "sweetest man in rock and roll".

Horslips' Johnny Fean at a photocall to announce details of their 2009 reunion.

Johnny Fean, best known as the guitarist of Irish rock trailblazers Horslips, has passed away at age 71, according to a statement issued by the band today.

The band confirmed that Fean passed away this morning at his home in Shannon.