JOHN Morgan - drummer of legendary West Country 'supergroup' The Wurzels - has died in Gloucester Royal Hospital, after contracting Covid-19 while on tour.

The Somerset musician, known as Morgy, passed away on Friday at the age of 80, the band's management has said.

The band's manager Sil Willcox said he was their "oldest drummer in captivity" and had been performing with them since 1981 up until two weeks ago.

The band achieved fame in the 1970s with their hits I've Got a Brand New Combine Harvester and I am a Cider-Drinker.

The Wurzel's accordion player Tommy Banner said: "We can't believe we shan't ever see you behind those drums again - we thought you were indestructible.

"With your sharp, quirky Forest wit - oh, you were also a bloomin' great drummer, just like your hero, Charlie Watts."

Mr Willcox 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 Wurzels management said the band intends to continue, and that Mr Morgan will always be remembered and loved by his fans, friends and bandmates.