Depeche Mode’s keyboardist Andy Fletcher has died at the age of 60, the band has announced.
Mr Fletcher, nicknamed “Fletch”, founded the group in Basildon in 1980 and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame two years ago.
In a statement, Depeche Mode said: “We are shocked and filled with overwhelming sadness with the untimely passing of our dear friend, family member and bandmate.
Andy Fletcher has died aged 60
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“Fletch had a true heart of gold and was always there when you needed support, a lively conversation, a good laugh, or a cold pint”.
Lol Tolhurst, drummer with The Cure, shared a heartfelt tribute to Mr Fletcher after news of his death broke.
“Very sad news today. Andy Fletcher of Depeche Mode has passed,” he tweeted.
“I knew Andy and considered him a friend. We crossed many of the same pathways as younger men.
“My heart goes out to his family, bandmates, and DM fans. RIP Fletch.”
While Carol Decker, lead singer for the band T’Pau, described Mr Fletcher as “a lovely guy”, adding: “Sending all my love to his family friends and band members.”
Mr Fletcher leaves behind a wife, Grainne, to whom he was married for almost 30 years, and two children, Megan and Joe.