David Bowie has led the tribute to Syd Barrett, calling the late Pink Floyd legend �a diamond.�

The pop chameleon says that Barrett was an inspiration to him and his only regret is that he never got to know the star.

Bowie said: "I can't tell you how sad I feel. The few times I saw him perform in London at UFO and the Marquee clubs during the '60s will forever be etched in my mind.

"He was so charismatic and such a startlingly original songwriter. Also, along with Anthony Newley, he was the first guy I'd heard to sing pop or rock with a British accent.

�His impact on my thinking was enormous. A major regret is that I never got to know him. A diamond indeed."

Graham Coxon also released a statement, saying: "Lost him again... for bang on 20 years Syd led me to better places."

"From my agape 17-year-old first listen to Bike to, just the other day, Jugband Blues.

"Languished in his noise... dreamt in his night... stared at his eyes for answers..."