Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts dies

The Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts has died at the age of 80, his publicist has confirmed. Watts was recently forced to pull out of the band’s upcoming tour of America and this news will be a devastating blow to his bandmates.

Watt’s London publicist Bernard Doherty confirmed the news in a statement: “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.’’