Beverley Knight has been left reeling by the death of her close friend and long-term musical director Paul Reid.
The singer paid tribute to the talented lead guitarist, known as Reidy to his friends, in an emotional Twitter message.
"On Christmas Day morning, our MD, our friend, our brother Paul Reid passed away," she wrote.
"There are no words that can adequately express the shock upon hearing the news, and the pain of trying to process and make sense of it all.
"Our hearts go out for his wife, son, his parents and his family."
Beverley went on: "Music is often referred to as the most inclusive, the most unifying language of all. That bond of music, love and family between myself, my band and Reidy as he was affectionately known by all, was is and will always remain eternal.
"We love you Reidy. We will miss you more than we could ever say. Heaven's great fortune is our deepest loss," she added.
Sharing the tragic news with her fans, Beverley wrote: "Important statement from myself and my band. We are trying to process and to grieve, so please bear with us. Xxx."
Followers who knew of Reidy's work added their own tributes, with one telling her: "Sending love to you, the band and Paul's family. It was a pleasure to work with you both for the @brumhippodrome gala in 2019. We really couldn't have done it without Paul. Such a warm, talented, generous soul who will be hugely missed."
The Feeling's Dan Gillespie wrote: "Terribly sorry for your loss. Sending love to you and all who knew him xxx."
And actor Ben Richards tweeted: "I am so sorry for You and your band mates loss, band mates and especially md’s can feel like family, sending love and thoughts x."
Reidy had also worked with The Saturdays and as a session guitarist for other artists.
