Tributes have been paid to Forrest Gump author Winston Groom, who has died aged 77.

Groom's novel about a slow-witted but kind-hearted man from Alabama was adapted into a Hollywood film in 1994.

Tom Hanks won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Gump, and the film itself won six other Oscars - including best picture - after grossing more than $683m (£527m) at the global box office.

It became a cultural sensation and in 2011 was selected for preservation in the US National Film Registry.

Saddened to learn that Alabama has lost one of our most gifted writers. While he will be remembered for creating Forrest Gump, Winston Groom was a talented journalist & noted author of American history. Our hearts & prayers are extended to his family. https://t.co/ywkZfZU5mU

— Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) September 17, 2020

Groom's death was confirmed by Alabama governor Kay Ivey.

She said: "Saddened to learn that Alabama has lost one of our most gifted writers."

"While he will be remembered for creating Forrest Gump, Winston Groom was a talented journalist and noted author of American history.

"Our hearts & prayers are extended to his family."

We are saddened to learn of the passing of one of our Legends, Winston Groom. A 1965 UA graduate, Groom authored 16 books, including Forrest Gump. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time. Bio: https://t.co/KoyJD7alVy #WhereLegendsAreMade pic.twitter.com/8B1V1BmOn3

— The Univ. of Alabama (@UofAlabama) September 17, 2020

Groom graduated from the University of Alabama in 1965 before a spell in the US army, which included a tour of duty in the Vietnam War.

In its tribute, the university called him "one of our legends".

Following the success of Forrest Gump, Groom wrote a follow-up, 1995's Gump and Co.

Groom, a former journalist, also wrote non-fiction on a range of subjects, including the American Civil War.