Robin Hardy, the legendary director behind classic horror film, The Wicker Man has died aged 86.

A family friend confirmed to the BBC that the Surrey-born director died on Friday.

Hardy was a major name in directing, and in particular the horror film genre. The Wicker Man is known as one of the greatest horror films of all time, following the story of a policeman (Edward Woodward) investigating the disappearance of a young girl based in the fictional Scottish town of Summerisle.

Sir Christopher Lee, who passed away in 2015, starred as Lord Summerisle in the 1973 film and said in his autobiography it was the greatest part he ever played.

Everett Collection Rex/Shutterstock

Hardy said last year he wanted to make a third Wicker Man film as a tribute to the late actor.

Hardy's other works include the 1986 film The Fantastist and The Wicker Tree.

Fans of the director have been sharing their tributes and messages of appreciation of his work. Director Edgar Wright said on Twitter: "R.I.P Robin Hardy, director of hugely influential horror 'The Wicker Man'. There would be no 'Hot Fuzz' without it."

This content is imported from Twitter. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. R.I.P Robin Hardy, director of hugely influential horror 'The Wicker Man'. There would be no 'Hot Fuzz' without it. pic.twitter.com/zALW0NrEfu — edgarwright (@edgarwright) July 2, 2016

This content is imported from Twitter. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. RIP Robin Hardy, director of The Wicker Man. One of the greatest British movies of all time. pic.twitter.com/QXE2pbwyAZ — Soylent Greenstreet 🤞 (@ChrisStagg) July 2, 2016

This content is imported from Twitter. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. And to add to my sadness today Robin Hardy creator of my #1 favourite film has died #robinhardy #thewickerman pic.twitter.com/KWTTLLBIcZ — Empress Apricity (@AlwaysEFL) July 2, 2016

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