The body of the 33-year-old singer was discovered at his holiday home in Majorca on Saturday (10.10.09) and, after flying into the Spanish island to comfort his partner Andy Cowles, the 'Love Me For A Reason' hitmakers – Ronan Keating, Shane Lynch, Keith Duffy and Mikey Graham - issued a statement about their grief.

It read: 'We are completely devastated by the loss of our friend and brother.

'We have shared such wonderful times together over the years and were looking forward to many more.

'Stephen was a beautiful person in both body and spirit. He lit up our loves and those of the many friends he had all over the world.

'We love you and will miss you forever Steo.'

Sir Elton John – who became a friend of Stephen after helping him beat depression after Boyzone split in 2000 – admitted he and partner David Furnish were 'stunned' by the news.

He added: 'Stephen was the kindest, gentlest soul. We send our love and condolences to his partner Andy and his friends everywhere.'

Irish band Westlife described the late star as a "friendly, positive spirit and a passionate performer' and sent their condolences to his family, friends and bandmates.

The group said in a statement: "We are, like everyone else, in shock. We met Stephen Gately back in 1998 when we first started out and since then had the pleasure of meeting him many times.

"Himself and the Boyzone guys paved the way for us as a band.

"Our thoughts are with Andy and the rest of his family, his friends, his legions of fans and of course his bandmates Keith, Mikey, Shane and Ronan who will be devastated at the loss of a truly beautiful person."

Brian McFadden joined his former Westlife bandmates in paying tribute, saying he was 'heartbroken' by the news.

He added: 'Life's so unfair. We loved you.'

Presenter Stephen Fry posted his thoughts on social networking website Twitter.

He wrote: 'Just heard the very sad news about dear Stephen Gately. What a dreadful shock. He was loveable and sweet-natured and will be hugely missed."

Other stars offering their condolences include Spice Girls singer Emma Bunton, 80s pop icon Boy George, and former Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern.