Comedian and musician Neil Innes has died, his agent has confirmed.
Innes was best known for his collaborations with Monty Python and as a band member in Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band and The Rutles.
He died weeks after celebrating his 75th birthday on December 9.
The Rutles were originally a fictional band by Eric Idle and Neil who created a parody of The Beatles for a 1970s TV show.
The band later became an actual group which toured and recorded, releasing many songs and albums including two UK chart hits.
His agent confirmed to the ECHO that Neil had sadly passed away last night (December 29).
Innes' family have requested privacy at this time. A statement will be issued later.
Tributes flooded in following the announcement of his death online.
Tom Huddleston said: "Shocked and very stunned. RIP Neil Innes, composer of this total banger. Remember we can still get in touch with him by tapping the table."
Jay Foreman wrote: "Neil Innes was given the task of parodying the Beatles and accidentally created a body of music that was every bit as good.
"If you haven’t yet treated yourself to the Rutles, today, the day we lost Neil Innes, is a great day to start."
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