KISS founding guitarist Ace Frehley dies aged 74

Paul Daniel "Ace" Frehley, founding guitarist for the American rock band KISS, has died aged 74, his family announced in a statement reported in US media.

Frehley died surrounded by family, who said they were "completely devastated and heartbroken".

"In his last moments, we were fortunate enough to have been able to surround him with loving, caring, peaceful words, thoughts, prayers and intentions as he left this earth," the statement said.

The guitarist was known for his "Spaceman" persona, from the days when KISS was founded with the original line-up of Paul Stanley (vocals, rhythm guitar), Gene Simmons (vocals, bass guitar), Frehley (lead guitar, vocals) and Peter Criss (drums, vocals).

They applied face paint to create four enduring characters - Demon, Starchild, Spaceman and Catman.

"We cherish all of his finest memories, his laughter, and celebrate his strengths and kindness that he bestowed upon others. The magnitude of his passing is of epic proportions, and beyond comprehension. Reflecting on all of his incredible life achievements, Ace's memory will continue to live on forever!" the family said.

Kiss first formed in 1973. The band produced hits such as Rock and Roll All Nite and God of Thunder.

In 1983, they appeared without face paint for the first time and enjoyed something of a resurgence. This was known as their "unmasking".

They later re-masked in the late 1990s.

Frehley and another founding member, Peter Criss, subsequently quit the group, which continued with different musicians.

The BBC has reached out to the band's representatives.

This is a breaking news story, more details will be added soon.