The Wurzels drummer John Morgan dies aged 80 after contracting Covid on tour

The Wurzels drummer John Morgan has died at the age of 80 after contracting Covid-19 on tour.

He was part of the West Country band for more than 40 years after joining the line-up in 1981.

Mr Morgan, from Lydney, Glos, was taken ill with Covid after The Wurzels played at Manchester Academy earlier this month. He passed away surrounded by his family in hospital in Gloucester on Friday.

Known as 'Morgy', the musician provided backing vocals and rhythm for The Wurzels across five decades, joining Pete Budd and Tommy Banner after the group had their hits with "The Combine Harvester" and "I Am A Cider Drinker" in the 1970s.

The Wurzels have toured consistently for five decades with Mr Morgan behind the drum kit, playing between 100 and 150 shows every year. They enjoyed a renaissance on the national music scene with an album of cover versions in the late 1990s.

The Wurzels accordion-player, Tommy Banner, paid tribute to his bandmate, saying: "We can't believe we shan't ever see you behind those drums again - we thought you were indestructible."

He went on: “We are all in shock, Morgy had the driest of humour and the kindest of hearts and all are thoughts are with his family.

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

The Wurzels have two gigs scheduled next week in Exmouth and Congresbury.