PICCADILLY Rats dancer Ray Boddington has died at the age of 78.

He died in hospital after being struck by a tram.

The popular performer was put on a life support machine and was inundated with message from well wishers sharing their thoughts and prayers.

Ray who was a familiar face in the city centre was known for dancing alongside other members of popular busking band The Piccadilly Rats. The group has also performed at festivals including Parklife and Kendal Calling.

Ray, who is a former hairdresser, has previously appeared on X Factor, Britain's Got Talent, The Jeremy Kyle Show and also on the programme Judge Rinder.

The collision took place at around 6.50pm on Wednesday,April 10 when a tram was travelling from Market Street in the direction of Victoria train station at the junction of High Street and Church Street.

Ray was left with serious head injuries. He was taken to hospital where in the early hours of this morning he died. His family are being supported by specially trained officers and enquiries into the collision remain ongoing.

Police Sergeant Lee Westhead of GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “This morning’s news is something that is terribly upsetting not only for his family but for those who knew and loved him.

“We will continue in our enquiries to find out exactly what happened and how the collision came to be.

“I’d like to make a specific appeal to any witnesses who have not yet contacted us. Any information you have, no matter how insignificant you may think it is could be important. ”

Anyone with information should contact GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0161 856 4741 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.