Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling has paid tribute to "magnificent actor" Alan Rickman on his death aged 69.

“There are no words to express how shocked and devastated I am to hear of Alan Rickman’s death. He was a magnificent actor and a wonderful man,” she tweeted

Rickman played potions master Professor Severus Snape in the Harry Potter films, playing the boy wizard's nemesis who ultimately turned out to have his best interests at heart.

Many others involved in the film have also tweeted about their former colleague. Harry Potter actor James Phelps, who played Fred Weasley tweeted: “One of the nicest actors I’ve ever met. Thoughts and prayers with his family at this time.”

Chris Rankin, who played Percy Weasley, wrote: "Just had awful news of Alan Rickman's death. Utterly devastated. Nothing more to say at this time."

Warwick Davis who played Professor Filius Filtwick tweeted: "So terribly sad to hear of the passing of Alan Rickman. Honoured to have shared the screen with him. #Marvin #Snape He'll be sorely missed."

Actor and writer Stephen Fry descibed him as "a man of such talent, wicked charm & stunning screen & stage presence. He'll be sorely missed."

British Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn called him "oe of the greatest actors of his generation"

Journalist Piers Morgan wrote “David Bowie dead from cancer at 69. Now Alan Rickman dead from cancer at 69. Two great talents, one bloody awful disease.”

Comedian Eddie Izzard said he did not want his heroes to die. He tweeted: “Alan Rickman is dead & he was another hero. Alan — thank you for being with us. We are sorry you had to go.”

Singer Alison Moyet started her tribute writing: “All the beauty we have lost this week. There was never justice.” She ended her Twitter message writing: “Goodbye Alan Rickman. We shall miss you.”

PA