The Bishop of Leicester is praying for all those affected by a tragic helicopter crash over the weekend that killed the owner of Leicester City FC and four others.

Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha died when the helicopter came down close to the King Power Stadium at around 20:30 BST on Saturday.

His death was confirmed in a statement by Leicester City FC in which it paid tribute to him as a man and club owner.

'In Khun Vichai, the world has lost a great man. A man of kindness, of generosity and a man whose life was defined by the love he devoted to his family and those he so successfully led,' the statement read.

'Leicester City was a family under his leadership. It is as a family that we will grieve his passing and maintain the pursuit of a vision for the Club that is now his legacy.'

Leicester police said that the other victims were believed to be two members of his staff, the pilot and a passenger.

A book of condolence for Srivaddhanaprabha, which will be shared with his family, will be opened at King Power Stadium from Tuesday morning for supporters wishing to pay their respects.

Leicester's match against Southampton in the EFL Cup on Tuesday has been postponed out of respect for Srivaddhanaprabha, the club confirmed.

Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel wrote an open letter in which he praised Srivaddhanaprabha 'as a leader, as a father and as a man'.

'It is difficult to put into words how much you have meant to this football club and to the city of Leicester,' he said.

'We all know about the investment in the football club you and your family have made. But this is about so much more.

'You cared so deeply for not just the club but for the entire community. Your endless contribution to Leicester's hospitals and charities will never be forgotten. You went above and beyond in every aspect.'

Fans have been leaving flowers, shirts and scarves outside the stadium in tribute to the victims.

Bishop of Leicester, the Rt Rev Martyn Snow had asked for churches in the city to pray for all those affected during their Sunday services.

He said he shared in the shock and grief felt by the city and fans following the accident.

'We stand with the football club and want to assure them of our support and care at this time,' he said.

He added on Twitter later on Sunday: 'Continued prayers for all grieving. Our city and football club have lost some true friends who brought joy to many.'

The Very Rev David Monteith, Dean of Leicester, was among those who went to King Power Stadium to pay tribute to the victims.

'Standing in the crowd to lay flowers, we were struck how carefully and considerately each item has been placed – each giving space to others. There is beauty as well as pain in this kaleidoscope of grief,' he said.