Actor Michael Sleggs, who played Slugs in BBC comedy This Country has died. The 33-year-old had revealed he had terminal cancer earlier this year. 

Sleggs died last night and tributes have started coming in from friends and fans of the award-winning acclaimed mockumentary series.

The Country star/writer and friend of Michael Sleggs Charlie Cooper posted a moving tribute on Instagram: "We are completely heartbroken. Michael was utterly unique. He was kind, he was caring, he was loving. One of the most considerate generous and gentle friends you could ever wish for and funny - fuck me he was funny. Despite everything that Michael had been through in his life, he was never bitter or self pitying. He just brought pure joy to everything and everyone. Just being in his company made you happy to be alive. One of Michael’s favourite films was the Muppet Christmas Carol and he would always joke that he was Tiny Tim so it only seems fitting to quote Kermit the frog- “It's all right, children. Life is made up of meetings and partings. That is the way of it. I am sure that we shall never forget Tiny Tim, or this first parting that there was among us”. Michael you will be so so missed xxx"

Producer/writer Simon Mayhew-Archer tweeted: "Michael encapsulated the spirit and humour of This Country. He was a fantastic, talented man who brought tremendous joy to all who knew him & saw him. I loved working with him & will miss him."

Trevor Cooper who played Old Len in the series posted: "So sad to hear that lovely MichaelSleggs who played Sluggs in This Country has died. He’s had a fairly awful time with illness in the past few months but he was great fun an we’ll all miss him #RIPSluggs"

Paul Barnes wrote: "An unexpected friendship that grew quickly, it's been an honour to know you. Thank you for what you have taught me about life and for being so naturally kind and funny @Michael_Sleggs"

Actor Camilla Alicia-Bates tweeted: "Last night just before midnight I lost my dear friend, My love @Michael_Sleggs my absolute rock who has always been there for me. So grateful I got to spend his final resting with him and so glad he is out of pain and at peace. I love you forever. #loveyou#rip#sluggs."

Artful Badger tweeted: "A truly sad day for the #ThisCountry community. For Cirencester and @Michael_Sleggs friends and family. Forever immortalised on our TV screens. RIP the man, the legend."

Owen Collins tweeted: "This Country's Slugs has gone to the big laser quest in the sky. RIP Michael Sleggs."

Writer Emma Kennedy wrote: "Oh this is so sad. This Country actor MichaelSleggs has died. RIP."

Neil Studd wrote: "Devastated to hear about the passing of This Country's MichaelSleggs. An underappreciated comic genius, and a true gent."