This Country star Michael Sleggs dies aged 33

This Country star Michael Sleggs has died at the age of 33.

The actor is best known for playing the character Slugs on the BBC Three comedy.

He revealed in late May that he was receiving palliative care for heart failure.

In a post on Facebook in late May, Sleggs said he had spent a lot of time in and out of hospital over several months.

He said he was sent home on palliative care to "live out the remainder of my days".

At the time, Sleggs said he was not told how much time he had left, but “deterioration has been fairly rapid”.

"Just wanted to say I love everyone reading this status so much, you have all been such amazing, kind, caring people who have all touched my life in so many unique and incredible ways," Sleggs wrote. "Sorry if this status is too schmaltzy but not everyone has the chance to say goodbye so indulge me."

Sleggs also added that his faith has brought him comfort and helped him accept what is happening to him.

BAFTA award-winning comedy This Country is a mockumentary that explores the lives of young people in modern rural Britain, focusing on cousins Kerry and Kurtan and their lives in the Cotswolds.

His character in This Country, who was diagnosed with terminal cancer, was based on Sleggs, according to the writers.

Charlie Cooper, who played one of the show's stars Kurtan, has paid tribute to the actor in a Twitter thread.

He wrote: "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 - f*** 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."

Cooper added: "Michael you will be so so missed."

This Country producer Simon Mayhew-Archer said Sleggs "encapsulated the spirit and humour" of the show.

He tweeted: "[Michael] was a fantastic, talented man who brought tremendous joy to all who knew him & saw him. I loved working with him & will miss him."