Charlatans drummer Jon Brookes dies aged 44

Jon Brookes, the drummer of indie band The Charlatans, died at the age of 44, three years after he was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

11:09 14 August 2013

Jon Brookes, the drummer of indie band The Charlatans and who was diagnosed with brain tumour three years ago, has died at the age of 44. It was confirmed in a statement posted on the band’s website that he passed away on Tuesday in hospital surrounded by his family.

"It is with great sadness that we have to announce that Jon Brookes, the drummer with The Charlatans, died this morning aged 44. He passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning with his family at his bedside."

"He was much loved by those who knew him and regarded as one of the finest drummers of his generation and will be dearly missed by all who knew him."

“Jon was a brilliant drummer, an inspiration, a founding member of The Charlatans, part of our family and a friend to everyone in and around the band."

In 2010, he had suffered a seizure on tour with the band and had since been receiving treatment for his condition.

Band mate and Charlatans frontman Tim Burgess took to Twitter and wrote: "Jon Brookes, my friend, our drummer and inspiration to so many, passed away this morning. We are torn apart. Love & thoughts to Jon's family,"