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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Entertainment
Ian Hughes

UB40 legend Astro dies aged 64 following 'short illness'

UB40 chart topper Astro has passed away suddenly, according to a statement released by the band.

The star, who was 64, is believed to have suffered from a short illness.

He passed away on Saturday (November 6).

Real name Terrence Wilson, Astro was a founding member of the Birmingham-based reggae band.

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He is the second member of UB40 to pass away this year, following the death of saxophonist Brian Travers in August.

Singer Astro left UB40 in 2013 - along with other founding member Ali Campbell - to form new band 'UB40 featuring Ali Campbell and Astro'.

Announcing the news on their twitter account, the act said the world "will never be the same" without him

The statement read: "We are absolutely devastated and completely heartbroken to have to tell you that our beloved Astro has today passed away after a very short illness.

"The world will never be the same without him.

UB40 had several UK number one hits (Sunday Mercury)

"We ask you to please respect his family’s privacy at this incredibly difficult time."

His former band also paid tribute.

They said: "RIP ASTRO We have heard tonight, the sad news that ex-member of UB40, Terence Wilson, better know as Astro, has passed away after a short illness.

"Our sincere condolences to his family."

Tributes also flooded in from fans on social media.

The BBC show Mrs Brown's Boys also paid its respects, tweeting: "We’re so sorry to hear of Astro’s passing we had the pleasure of meeting him a few years ago on our show."

Ann aspery wrote: "So sad to hear of the sudden passing of our Legendary Brummie Lad, Astro. My deepest condolences to His Family and friends. #RIPAstro."

Nicola murray said: "So very sad. rip Astro."

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