The Smiths bassist Andy Rourke has died aged 59, his former bandmate Johnny Marr has said.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Andy Rourke after a lengthy illness with pancreatic cancer,” the guitarist wrote on Twitter.
“Andy will be remembered as a kind and beautiful soul by those who knew him and as a supremely gifted musician by music fans. We request privacy at this sad time.”
Rourke, who left school at 15, formed The Smiths with Morrissey. He played bass on the band’s most famous songs as well as many of Morrissey’s solo tracks.
More to follow…