The Rolling Stones and their fans are in mourning after their drummer Charlie Watts has died at the age of 80.
Charlie's London publicist Bernard Doherty said 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."
The sad news follows Charlie's absence from the band's No Filter tour, which he pulled out of a few weeks ago.
The star's spokesperson revealed the rocker would not play US shows earlier this month, and said that Charlie had to 'rest and recuperate' after undergoing a medical procedure.
Although it was confirmed that the operation was 'completely successful' Charlie was said to have needed recovery time.
Charlie himself said "For once my timing has been a little off. I am working hard to get fully fit but I have today accepted on the advice of the experts that this will take a while."
The Rolling Stones members Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood all shared messages of support following the announcement.
