Ant and Dec lead tributes for BGT star who has sadly died aged 51

Geordie duo Ant and Dec have taken time out from their busy schedules to pay tribute to a former Britain's Got Talent crew member, after news broke that he's sadly passed away at the age of just 51.

Ian Royce, who worked as a warm-up comedian for shows like Britain's Got Talent and The X Factor for many years, sadly passed away surrounded by his family after a battle with pneumonia left him with multiple organ failure.

Ian's daughter Roxanne announced the incredibly sad news on Tuesday 1st September, writing on Twitter, 'It is with our greatest regret that we have to tell you all that Ian has passed away today from severe pneumonia and multiple organ failure.

'He was in no pain and was surrounded by friends and family. He put up a good fight but is in a better place now.' (sic)

Hosts Ant and Dec were quick to reply to the sad news, writing, 'We are sorry to hear of the passing of Ian ‘Roycey’ Royce. (@officialroycey) He was an integral part of the #BGT team for many years. Our thoughts are with his beloved Roxy and all his family. RIP Roycey. We’ll never forget you. X'. (sic)

Former Britain's Got Talent judge Piers Morgan also paid tribute to Ian, he told fans, 'RIP Ian ‘Roycey’ Royce. Funniest warm-up man in showbiz and a legend in the TV industry. Worked with him on ⁦@BGT @AGT & most of my Life Stories shows. Great guy, very loyal friend, & such a proud dad to his daughter Roxanne. Thanks for all the laughs mate.' (sic)

Piers' son Spencer Morgan later added, 'So sad to hear of the passing of @officialroyceySo many fun times over the years. The man’s heart was as big as they come and anyone who ever went to X factor / BGT live will know what an entertainer he was. RIP.' (sic)

Ian worked on a number of popular shows as a warm-up comedian, including the likes of Britain's Got Talent, The X Factor, America's Got Talent and Piers Morgan's Life Stories.

Our thoughts are with Ian's family and friends at this sad time.