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The Script guitarist Mark Sheehan died in hospital aged 46 following a brief illness.

His shock passing was announced on the Irish band's official Facebook page on Friday, April 15 (UK time) two weeks after the group's latest gig was announced.

Their statement 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."

The father-of-three lived in America with wife Rina.

His bandmates were reportedly "utterly devastated" by the news.

Sheehan took time away from the band and sat out of nearly a year of gigs in 2021 to spend more time with his family.

"His children needed a father and his wife needed a husband," lead singer Danny O'Donoghue, 42, was reported as saying.

The guitarist returned to the trio "refreshed".

O'Donoghue also told the newspaper that his pal was "the perfect songwriting partner".

The group were formed in Dublin in 2001, with Sheehan on guitar, Glen Power on drums and O'Donoghue on vocals.

They went on to sell 20 million records worldwide, including "The Man Who Can't be Moved", "For The First Time", "We Cry", and "Hall of Fame".

The group were set to play The Halls in Wolverhampton in June, it was announced at the end of March.

Top photos via The Script Facebook