The drummer of the British band the Wurzels has died in hospital after contracting Covid-19 while on tour.
Somerset musician John Morgan, originally from Lydney, Gloucestershire, became ill with coronavirus after the Wurzels played at Manchester Academy earlier this month and died at the age of 80 on Friday in Gloucester Royal hospital, surrounded by his family.
The band’s manager said he was the “oldest drummer in captivity” and had been performing with them for more than 40 years, from 1981 until two weeks ago.
Band member Tommy Banner said in an online tribute: “We can’t believe we shan’t ever see you behind those drums again – we thought you were indestructible.”
The band, which celebrates rural life in the west of England, rose to fame in the 1970s with hits such as I Am a Cider Drinker and The Combine Harvester.
The Wurzels are also popular with supporters of Bristol City FC, with their song, One for the Bristol City, being the official club anthem.
The football club paid tribute to Morgan in a tweet: “The Wurzels rings round Ashton Gate in memory of John Morgan. Rest in Peace.”
The Wurzels rings round Ashton Gate in memory of John Morgan. 🎶
— Bristol City FC (@BristolCity) December 18, 2021
Rest in Peace. ❤️
Banner said Morgan will be missed, adding: “With your sharp, quirky Forest wit – oh, you were also a great drummer, just like your hero, Charlie Watts.”
Banner told ITV that Morgan, known as “Morgy”, loved his home in the Forest of Dean, and was “a real Forester”.
“I’m not an envious person but I was always envious of John, that he could still make his living by being among his own,” Banner said.
Sil Willcox, the band manager, said: “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.”