THE man regarded by many fans as the fifth Beatle has paid tribute to George Harrison.

Record producer George Martin, who lives near Highworth, worked closely with the legendary guitarist, who died on Thursday after a long battle with cancer.

"George was a true friend, intensely loyal, caring deeply for those he loved, and he inspired much love in return," he said.

And Bill Reid, owner of the Brunel Rooms nightclub in Swindon, paid Harrison and the Beatles £27 for a concert at the McIlroys in the town centre in 1962.

He said: "I think we gave them their first dates outside Liverpool.

"It's very sad news about George. He was a legend. Everybody said what a lovely guy he was."