Mark Sheehan, founding member and guitarist with The Script, has died at the age of 46, the band has announced.

The Irish rock group formed in 2001, with Sheehan linking up with vocalist Danny O'Donoghue - his childhood best friend - and drummer Glen Power.

A move to London and a record deal with Sony in 2008 gave them their big break, with their first four albums all topping the UK charts.

Sheehan missed most of the group's gigs in 2021 and early 2022 for what O'Donoghue described as family reasons, although he rejoined them last summer for a string of performances.

A statement on the band's social media accounts said: "Much loved husband, father, brother, band mate and friend Mark Sheehan passed away today in hospital after a brief illness.

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

Sheehan is survived by wife Rina and their three children.