Charlie Wicks, the inventor of the RAT Pedal, has been praised by his former colleagues following his death from cancer at the age of 65.
Mr Wicks, who was the founder, owner and chief executive officer of Pro Co Sound, came up with the famous RAT Distortion Pedal in the 1970s.
The piece of musical equipment was highly successful – going on to be used by the likes of The Rolling Stones, Radiohead and Lou Reed.
Debbe Stephenson, friend of Mr Wicks and president of Pro Co, said: "He will remain in our hearts as we continue to carry on his dream."
Sammy Ash, chief operating officer of Sam Ash Music, added: "He was a very good friend.
"He will be missed."
A further tribute was paid to Mr Wicks by Gary Allen, president of the Guitar Gear Heads website, who said that he was a man with integrity and honesty.
