Musicians and singers from across the world have paid tribute to "one of the finest drummers of our time" who passed away suddenly today.

Scottish musician Ted Mckenna, who played with The Sensational Alex Harvey Band and The Michael Shenker Group, was said to have been going in for a routine operation but died as a result of complications which lead to him haemorrhaging blood.

A close friend of the 68-year-old confirmed the news on social media and paid tribute to the drummer who was originally from Lennoxtown, East Dunbartonshire.

In an emotional post Gerry McAvoy wrote: "I'm lost for words creating this post. I lost my friend and comrade this morning.

"After what should have been a routine operation,there were complications, meaning Ted started hemorrhaging blood.

"Sadly the surgeons could not stop the bleeding. I spoke with Ted on Thursday,wished him good luck and told him we will speak on Saturday.

"I'm devastated. Ted was one of the nicest guys you could ever meet. A brilliant musician. He was a big man with a big heart, and he has left us all with a big hole in our lives.

"RIP Ted from myself, Marcel, Davy and all those musicains who had the pleasure of playing with one of the finest drummers of all time."

McKenna worked with several different bands over the years but is perhaps best known for his work with The Sensational Alex Harvey Band who released a Live in Glasgow '93 album and performed at The King's Theatre in the city.

His most recent musical works were with The Michael Schenker Group who recorded a concert in Tokyo, Japan in 2016 and released the studio album "Resurrection" just last year.

McKenna also lectured in Applied Arts at North Glasgow College between 1996 and 2011.

Fans of both bands have paid tribute to the drummer with some remembering listening to his music as a child.

Hilton Heslop said: "I grew up listening to SAHB and Rory, and saw Ted with you and Rory on a number of occasions. Never knew him personally, but he came across as a fine man, as well as being a fantastic drummer. This is very sad news. Condolences to you and his family and friends."

Helen Brook added: "Such sad news. I have many happy memories of being with you all back in the '70/'80s and remember Ted to be a warm, kind man and a barn-storming drummer who, metaphorically (and one time, I remember well, literally!) set fire to his drum kit with his playing. My thoughts are with you, Gerry, and with all of Ted's family, friends and fans."

Former Status Quo drummer John Coghlan paid tribute on twitter, saying: "Very sorry to receive the sad news of our dear friend Ted McKenna. Fab drummer and such a great guy. We shall miss you."

Bassist Neil Murray wrote: "Completely shocked by the very sad news of the sudden death of drummer Ted McKenna (SAHB, Michael Schenker, Rory Gallagher and many others) who I spent time with only three weeks ago at the Cozy Powell Birthday Bash. A lovely guy and great drummer who will be much missed."