Bay City Rollers bassist Ian Mitchell dies aged 62

Ian Mitchell, a former bassist with the Bay City Rollers, has died at the age of 62.

The news was announced on the group's official Facebook page as they extended their condolences to Mitchell's loved ones.

"We are deeply saddened by the news of Ian Mitchell’s death.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Wendy, their family and friends. Rest In Peace, Ian,” the message read.

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Fans were then prompted to leave messages of condolence in the comments section. A cause of death was not disclosed.

Guitarist Stuart 'Woody' Wood added to tributes, writing on his Facebook profile: "Very sad, sad news about Ian Mitchell. We’d like to send our love and condolences to Wendy and all Ian’s family and friends…you are in our hearts.

"I have many fond memories of Ian not only in the BCR days but also when we played together in the 80’s with The Passengers…great guys and great days! You will sorely be missed Ian…"

Northern Ireland-born Mitchell took over the role of the bassist in the band from founding member Alan Longmuir, playing on their 1976 album Dedication.

The record contained the group's cover of Dusty Springfield's 'I Only Want to be With You'.

He left the group shortly afterwards where he was then replaced by Pat McGlynn.

Despite his short-lived stint with the Bay City Rollers, Mitchell famously got a namecheck in US comedy Friends.

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In a 2001 episode which saw Monica Gellar (Courteney Cox) get engaged to Chandler Bing (Matthew Perry), she said: "I want a string quartet for the processional, a jazz trio for cocktails and The Bay City Rollers for dancing.”

Chandler then replied: "You couldn’t get The Rollers anyway as Ian doesn’t play any more.”