Catholics in Thailand mourned the death of Pope Francis, who passed away yesterday at the age of 88.

Footage shows bells ringing solemnly at the Assumption Cathedral in Bangkok shortly after it was announced that the pontiff had died.

Church bells also tolled at Our Lady Mother of God Church in Rangsit, Pathum Thani province along with other Catholic churches across the country.

Pope Francis, whose real name is Jorge Bergoglio, was recently hospitalised for pneumonia in both lungs. He spent 38 days being treated at the Gemelli hospital in Rome, before being discharged on March 23.

The pontiff made a final public appearance at the Saint Peter's Basilica in the Vatican on Easter Sunday, just a day before his passing.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, in a statement published by the Vatican on the messaging app Telegram, said: 'Dearest brothers and sisters, it is with deep sorrow that I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.

'This morning at 7:35 am (0535 GMT) the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.

'His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His church.'

A papal funeral will be held, after which senior Catholic leaders known as the College of Cardinals will elect a new Pope.