Peter Shaffer, celebrated writer of Equus and Amadeus, has died at the age of 90 after a short illness.

The renowned playwright died at the Marymount Hospice in Ireland, with family by his side, his agent said.

A statement from Macnaughton Lord Representation said: “It is with great sorrow that we must announce the death of our friend and client, Sir Peter Shaffer CBE whilst on a visit to Ireland with friends and family.

“He was 90.”

Shaffer “passed away peacefully” at 5.30am on June 6th at the hospice in CoCork with his niece Cressida at his side.

The statement continued: "His great friend and American agent, Dennis Aspland remained with him in Ireland throughout his short illness.

“He had been struggling with his health for some time, but was both determined and delighted to have been able to celebrate his 90th birthday in Ireland last month with close family and friends.”

Respected as “one of the true greats of British theatre”, he was also described by his spokesman as “a wonderful friend, wickedly funny man and sparkling raconteur” who also had a love of “music, painting and architecture”.

His agent said his close family and friends would like to thank the staff who “cared for him so well” at Bon Secours Hospital and Marymount Hospice.

PA