Scores of tributes have been paid to Frankie and the Heartstrings drummer Dave Harper who has died.
The Sunderland band announced the sad news on Twitter on Thursday, telling their followers that Dave had died in hospital on Wednesday night. He was aged in his 40s.
The post said: "We are desperately sad to announce that our dearest friend and drummer Dave Harper passed away in hospital last night.
"Where do we even start to describe what kind of person he was and what he meant to so many. This legend was unforgettable and we’re heartbroken over this loss."
Numerous messages have since been put on social media, describing Dave as a "legend" and a "wonderful human".
One tribute read: "A sad day for the whole of Sunderland, the music world, his band mates, soulmates, and of course his family. He will be sadly missed, and he will leave a huge void."
Another wrote: "In total shock reading this. So, so sorry for your loss and sending you and Dave’s family so much love and strength. One of the best blokes around."
And one note said: "Stunned by this. Dave was a cracking fella as you all know. One of the good guys and what a great champion of music and culture in the North East. So sad and love to the band and all who were lucky enough to know him."
Dave was also known for being one of the owners of Sunderland’s Pop Recs on High Street West, which he ran with guitarist Michael McKnight.
