X Factor legend Big Tony dies aged 64

He worked closely with Simon Cowell for several years.

Bodyguard Tony Adkins, known as Big Tony, worked alongside Simon Cowell for several years.

A family member has confirmed on social media that the 64-year-old died on Easter Sunday while on a rugby tour.

As well as working with Cowel on the ITV reality show, Big Tony played a giant in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part Two in 2011.

His cousin shared a photo of Tony alongside the caption: "It is with great sadness my family would like to announce that my Cousin Big Tony, Simon Cowell's ex bodyguard, passed away on Easter Sunday while on a Rugby Tour.

"He was a loveable Rogue and will be missed very much, RIP Big T."

Hammersmith and Fulham RFC shared their own tribute on Facebook, saying: "It is with immense sadness that Hammersmith & Fulham RFC pays tribute to a true gent and great Hammer, Tony Adkins, who passed away on Easter Sunday whilst on tour with the Club in Poland."

The tribute continued: "While his loss is hard to bear, it brings some comfort to those that knew him that he passed while doing what he loved - touring with the boys.

"More than a Rugby player, Tony found a niche later in life under the bright lights, serving as a long-time bodyguard for Simon Cowell during his time on X-factor, and featuring in the Harry Potter franchise as a giant, which all agreed was fitting.

"His friendliness and generosity will be missed by all who knew him, and our thoughts are with his family. Vale Tony."

Big Tony had previously spoken to The Mirror about his time working for the music mogul, who he described as 'laid-back and a very nice guy.'

"He was generous, too. Whenever the show finished - and at Christmas - you'd get an envelope as a thank you. The last one I got had £700 stuffed in it.

"He's a very private person. He doesn't give much away. You never see him drunk or out of control."