Wurzels drummer John Morgan dies aged 80 after catching Covid on tour

Tributes have poured in for The Wurzels drummer John Morgan after he died at the age of 80 after contracting coronavirus while on tour

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The Wurzels perform in Bristol in 2017

The Wurzels star John Morgan has died after contracting coronavirus.

The 80-year-old drummer was on tour with the band when he caught the deadly virus, Bristol Live reports.

He had taken ill after a gig in Manchester earlier this month, and died on Friday surrounded by his family in hospital in Gloucester.

John, who was described as a larger than life character, provided rhythm for the West Country band for more than 40 years after first joining the line up in 1981.

Known by the nickname ‘Morgy’, John also provided backing vocals after joining the band alongside Pete Budd and Tommy Banner not long after they enjoyed huge hits in the 1970s.

The Wurzels have enjoyed a long career, selling out concerts across the country, with John present behind the drum kit throughout the 80s, 90s and beyond.

Recently, the band had been gigging consistently, performing up to 150 shows a year.

The band’s accordion player Tommy paid tribute to John, saying: “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***er, with your sharp, quirky Forest wit – oh and you were also a bloomin’ great drummer, just like your hero, Charlie Watts.”

He added: “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 more gigs scheduled this week, in Exeter and Somerset.

A spokesperson for Watchet Music Festival, which The Wurzels regularly played at, said: “We are all sad to hear the news that The Wurzels drummer John Morgan has sadly passed away.

“John has always been a big supporter of Watchet festival, our thoughts are with his family, and the other band members. RIP John and thank you for being a true down to earth person, you will be greatly missed.”