The drummer of West Country band the Wurzels has died after contracting Covid.

John Morgan died on December 17 in Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, aged 80.

Hailed as the Wurzels' oldest drummer in captivity, he joined the band in 1981 and had been performing with them up until two weeks ago.

The band originally rose to fame as Adge Cutler and The Wurzels, hailing from Somerset with hits such as 'Don't Tell I, Tell 'Ee' and 'Drink Up Thy Cider'. When Adge Cutler died in May 1974, the remaining Wurzels decided to carry on Adge's legacy and released their first solo single, 'The Combine Harvester' which shot to No.1 in the UK charts.

The current band members include Tommy Banner, the longest serving Wurzel who joined in 1967, Pete Budd, Sedge Moore (Ross Crook), Louie 'Gribble' Nicastro and Dan 'Dribble' Lashbrook.

They went on to release 'Ruby', 'I Am A Cider Drinker 2007' and more, as well as play at Glastonbury Festival.

They played annually in Bridport, including at The Bull Hotel's former hay loft and at the Electric Palace.

Tommy Banner from the band said: "We can't believe we shan't ever see you behind those drums again - we thought you were indestructible. We shall miss you John, you grumpy old b----r, with your sharp, quirky, Forest wit - oh, you were also a bloomin' great drummer, just like your hero, Charlie Watts.

"We are all in shock, Morgy had the driest of humour and the kindest of hearts and all our thoughts are with his family.

"The band intend to continue but John will always be remembered and loved by his fans, friends and band."

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