Tributes to Sussex bassist Herbie Flowers who played with Bowie, Bolan and McCartney

In 2013, Flowers, who was also an accomplished pianist and tuba player, spoke to ITV Meridian reporter Malcolm Shaw about his life and career.

Bass guitarist legend Herbie Flowers, who played with some of the greats of the 1960s and 70s, has died aged 86.

Flowers, who lived in Ditchling, East Sussex, worked as a session musician in London and contributed to the work of Elton John, David Bowie, Paul McCartney and Mark Bolan.

He was also responsible for the iconic bass line on Lou Reed's hit song 'Walk on the Wild Side.'

Flowers, centre, with Mark Bolan as part of T. Rex

News of his death on Thursday was confirmed by family members on social media.

Posting on Facebook, Kevin J Conkin, husband of Flowers' niece Lorraine Bassett, paid tribute to him and said he was 'blessed' to have known him.

"While we knew and loved him as Uncle Herbie, his musical contributions have likely touched your lives as well," he wrote.

"He played bass on many of the songs from the golden age of rock.

"As a studio musician in London in the 60’s and 70’s he got to know and contribute to the music of Elton John, David Bowie, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Ringo Starr, Mark Bolin, Cat Stevens, Harry Nilsson, Al Kooper, Melanie and many other popular musicians.

"He was also a member of T Rex, Blue Mink and Sky. Herbie’s most well known musical contribution was likely the iconic bass line for Lou Reed’s “Walk on the Wildside”.

"We’ll miss you Uncle Herbie! Rock on."

The Charlatans singer Tim Burgess has led the tributes to Flowers saying he “made the greats sound greater.”

Flowers, second right, with the band Blue Mink Credit: PA

David Bowie’s estate also paid tribute to the star’s former collaborator, saying: “We are very sad to learn of the passing of Herbie Flowers in the last couple of days.

“His work with Bowie and associates over the years is too long to list here.

“Aside from his incredible musicianship over many decades, he was a beautiful soul and a very funny man. He will be sorely missed.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Suede bass player Mat Osman, also joined in with tributes, adding: “RIP Herbie Flowers. So many great basslines – imagine having played on Space Oddity, Walk on the Wild Side and Rock On.”