A BOURNEMOUTH hotel has paid tribute to Boyzone star Stephen Gately, who died suddenly at the age of 33.

The Irish singer died while on holiday in Majorca.

A spokesman for Stephen's family attributed his death to natural causes and ruled out drugs and suicide.

Stephen Gately used to be a regular visitor to the Langtry Manor Hotel in Bournemouth with his life partner Andrew Cowles.

Tara Howard, the managing director of the Langtry Manor, said she sends her condolences to Stephen’s family.

“Stephen’s death is a shock to our family,” she said.

“We used to enjoy having him and Andrew come and stay very much. I think they just wanted to get away to somewhere where they could spend quality time together in a friendly and romantic atmosphere.

“They were both so down to earth and I enjoyed having a good laugh with them.

“Stephen even invited me to stay if I was ever up in London – I now feel sorry that I never took him up on his offer.

“I really think you would find it hard to come across such a nice guy – our thoughts are with Andrew, who I am sure will miss him terribly.”