'We've all lost a wonderful man'

Speaking outside the hospital where his father died, an emotional Calum Best told reporters: "Not only have I lost my dad, but we've all lost a wonderful man."

Best's second wife, Alex, said in a statement that she would always miss the "love of my life", adding: "He was a unique and talented person who made a lot of people very happy. I will always miss him."

British prime minister Tony Blair led the political tributes, saying: "We all know that George Best was probably the most naturally gifted footballer of his generation, one of the greatest footballers the UK has ever produced."

Musician Bob Geldof called Best the "first pop star footballer" and "the prototype for all the boys we know about today". The difference, he said, was that Best did not know what he was doing. "He was just this gorgeous young, talented kid and he got a lot of money every week, and could not deal with it."

Former BBC director general Greg Dyke, a lifelong Manchester United fan, told the ITV News Channel: "He was probably the best footballer of all time. I remember him just as a player. Forget about the rest of his life, he was the most wonderful player, he could do things that no one else could do. He was just a talent that comes once a century.

Unfortunately, the pressure told, Mr Dyke added. "Some players can cope with it, others cannot. As he got older he did not cope very well with it. The tragedy is that he was all over really by 27."

Northern Ireland Secretary Peter Hain said Best was "an iconic figure who never forgot his roots", and who would always have a place in the hearts of everyone in Northern Ireland.

"George was recognised around the world as a footballing genius and will remain an inspiration to young footballers from Northern Ireland for generations to come.

"His natural footballing talent brought pleasure to millions, entertaining fans across the globe with his unique skill, style and pace.

"He was a larger-than-life character who was Northern Ireland's most famous sporting son and will be sadly missed," Mr Hain said.