Tributes have been paid to the former Church of Ireland Bishop Brian Hannon, who has died aged 85.

He was the Bishop of Clogher for 15 years.

Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland John McDowell said it was with "a sense of deep sadness" that he learned of Bishop Hannon's death.

"Brian was deeply loved by so many people in the Diocese of Clogher who knew him well, and just as deeply respected right across the church which he served with diligence, with good humour, and with dignity.

"His whole character and outlook on life were molded by a lifelong discipleship of Jesus Christ, so any words he spoke in public carried the weight of his own integrity," said Archbishop McDowell.

Bishop Hannon ministered in Derry from 1969 to 1982.

Archbishop McDowell said Bishop Hannon "ministered in times and places which were amongst the most difficult during the Troubles, yet he did so without growing bitter or cynical. He spoke and acted always with compassion and understanding and did all in his power to work towards peaceful outcomes in a divided society".

Bishop of Clogher Dr Ian Ellis said: "Bishop Brian was much loved and admired for his spiritual and pastoral support for his people, especially in providing leadership through days of disruption and violence in Northern Ireland.

"His patient, prayerful approach and commitment to enhancing education and community life is fondly remembered by all within this diocese, the Church of Ireland and the wider Anglican communion."

Catholic Bishop of Clogher Larry Duffy paid tribute to Bishop Hannon, noting "the immense contribution he made to the Christian life on this diocese".

Born in 1936, Brian Desmond Anthony Hannon was educated at Trinity College Dublin and was ordained in 1961.

From 1982, he was Rector of the Parish of Enniskillen (St Macartin's Cathedral) in the Diocese of Clogher.

He became Dean of Clogher in 1985 and was elected Bishop of Clogher the following year.

Bishop Hannon retired in 2001 on his 65th birthday.

He is survived by his wife Maeve, and sons, Desmond, Brendan and his youngest son, singer-songwriter Neil, who is frontman of the Divine Comedy.