British actor Bob Hoskins has died from pneumonia at the age of 71, his agent has said.

The star was born in Bury St. Edmund's in Suffolk. He was known for his role in hit movies including 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit'.

He won BAFTA and Golden Globe best actor awards for his role in 'Mona Lisa'.

He retired from the movie industry in 2012 after being diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease.

In a statement, his wife Linda and children Alex, Sarah, Rosa and Jack said "We are devastated by the loss of our beloved Bob".

"Bob died peacefully in hospital last night, surrounded by family, following a bout of pneumonia".

"We ask that you respect our privacy during this time and thank you for your messages of love and support".

Leading figures in the entertainment industry were quick to pay tribute to Hoskins on Twitter.

Stephen Fry described him as a "marvellous man", writing "Oh no, Bob Hoskins. Gone? That's awful news. The Long Good Friday (was) one of the best British movies of the modern era".

BAFTA officials said they were "deeply saddened" to hear of the actor's death, while actress Vicky McClure added "Just heard the very sad news (that) Bob Hoskins has died. He was one of the best. I feel honoured to have met and worked with him. RIP Bob".

Hollywood actor Samuel L. Jackson described the actor as a "truly gigantic talent", while 'Spandau Ballet' star Gary Kemp added "So few cockney actors are taken seriously in acting or even given (the) opportunity. Bob Hoskins smashed the glass ceiling and rose. Respect".

His first major movie role came in the 1980 picture 'Long Good Friday', in which he played Harold Shand.

As well as 1986's 'Mona Lisa' and 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit' two years later, he starred in Steven Spielberg's 1991 film 'Hook'.

His distinctive gravelly, cockney accent is also remembered from a TV advertising campaign for BT, in which he told viewers "It's good to talk".

Watch him in a clip from 1988's 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit':