Image copyright AP Image caption Pat Conroy is recognised as a leading figure of the 20th Century's literature of the American South

US novelist Pat Conroy - whose best-selling novels include Prince of Tides and Water is Wide - has died aged 70.

Conroy, who had pancreatic cancer, died at his home in Beaufort, South Carolina, surrounded by family and friends, his wife and publisher said.

His works drew from his own experiences of life in South Carolina.

He is recognised as a leading figure of the 20th Century's literature of the American South.

Several of Conroy's novels were made into films.

"The water is wide but he has now crossed over," his wife, Cassandra King, said in a statement issued via his publisher.

She said Conroy died on Friday evening.

In a tweet, South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley wrote: "South Carolina lost a beloved son tonight. Pat Conroy will be missed. We can find comfort knowing his words and love for SC will live on."