Steve Mackey, the bassist for the British band Pulp, has died at the age of 56.

His wife, Katie Grand, took to social media to share the tragic news, revealing that he spent three months in the hospital, "fighting with all his strength and determination".

"We are shocked and devastated to have said goodbye my brilliant, beautiful husband, Steve Mackey," she wrote in a post shared on Mackey's Instagram page.

"Steve died today, a loss which has left myself, his son Marley, parents Kath and Paul, sister Michelle and many friends all heartbroken.

"Steve was the most talented man I knew, an exceptional musician, producer, photographer and filmmaker. As in life, he was adored by everyone whose paths he crossed in the multiple creative disciplines he conquered," she praised.

She also thanked the NHS staff for taking care of her husband and asked for privacy during this difficult time.

Pulp also shared a sweet tribute to the star, with a picture of them hiking over a decade ago.

"This photo of Steve dates from when Pulp were on tour in South America in 2012. We had a day off & Steve suggested we go climbing in the Andes. So we did & it was a completely magical experience," they reminisced.

They also praised him saying that "Steve made things happen. In his life & in the band.

We'd very much like to think that he's back in those mountains now, on the next stage of his adventure. Safe travels, Steve. We hope to catch up with you one day. All our love xx."

Mackey joined Pulp in 1989, and first appeared in the third album, Separations.

Various fans have also posted their tribute on Twitter.

English trip hop group, Massive Attack , shared their tribute with a black and white image of Mackey and quoting a lyric from his band's track Sorted For E's & Wizz.

"Very sorry to hear the passing of Steve Mackey. We worked at his studio in 2016. He was a lovely bloke. Thoughts are with his family," wrote another musical duo.

"So sad to hear of Steve Mackey’s passing. Wonderful musician and producer, and a true gentleman," tweeted a fan.

Image: Getty