The Charlatans drummer Jon Brookes has passed away aged just 44 after battling against brain cancer.

He was first diagnosed with the disease after collapsing on stage at a gig in Philadelphia back in 2010 and has since undergone a number on operations to try and combat the disease.

A statement was released on the band’s website today saying: "It is with great sadness that we have to announce that Jon Brookes, the drummer with The Charlatans, died this morning aged 44.

"Following a seizure on tour in Philadelphia in 2010, Jon had been receiving treatment for a brain tumour and had undergone several operations, although he had been working on new material with the band over the summer... He passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning with his family at his bedside.

"Jon was a founding member of The Charlatans, who formed in the West Midlands in 1989. 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. Losing someone who was always so full of life is a tragedy that will be shared by so many. Our thoughts are with Debbie and all of Jon's family. RIP JON BROOKES."

Brookes rejoined the band in late 2010 after receiving treatment but suffered a relapse in September 2012.

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