Charlie Watts, drummer with the Rolling Stones, has died at the age of 80, his publicist has confirmed.
Widely considered to be one of the best drummers of all times, Watts had been part of the rock band since 1963 and was still touring with the group up until recently.
At the start of the month Watts announced that he would be sitting out of the Stones' US tour to recover from a medical procedure and Steve Jordan was drafted in as his replacement.
Watts's publicist Bernard Doherty told PA: "It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Charlie Watts.
"He passed away peacefully in a London hospital earlier today surrounded by his family.
"Charlie was a cherished husband, father and grandfather and also, as a member of The Rolling Stones, one of the greatest drummers of his generation.
"We kindly request that the privacy of his family, band members and close friends is respected at this difficult time."
Watts is survived by his wife of 56 years Shirley and their daughter Serafina.
Neil Wilkes
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