UB40

UB40 legend Astro dies suddenly after short illness aged 64

The Brummie star, whose real name was Terence Wilson, passed away today (Saturday, November 6).

Astro left the chart-topping Birmingham band in 2013 to join with other founding member Ali Campbell for a new band - UB40 featuring Ali Campbell and Astro.

The band shared the sad news on their Twitter account.

"We are absolutely devastated and completely heartbroken to have to tell you that our beloved Astro has today passed away after a very short illness," the heartbreaking message read.

UB40 saxophonist and songwriter dies at 62

His bandmates said they were "devastated" by the news about "our comrade, brother, founding UB40 member and musical legend".

They said he had endured a "long and heroic battle with cancer".

He had surgery to remove two brain tumours in 2019 and reportedly had another operation earlier this year.

Travers was a key part of the UB40 line-up as a saxophone player, arranger and lyricist.

UB40: Singer Duncan Campbell announces retirement

The 63-year-old, who replaced his brother Ali on singing duties in the British reggae pop band in 2008, suffered a stroke in August last year.

Since then the former pro spoon player had been recovering in preparation for the Birmingham band's upcoming UK tour.

But Campbell said had to retire now "due to continued ill health".

UB40 confirmed they have already begun the search for a new singer.

UB40 singer Duncan Campbell 'up and about' after suffering stroke

In a statement, the Birmingham-based band said he was "already up and about" and asked fans for privacy during his recuperation.

The band said they hoped he would make "a strong and speedy recovery" and that they would be back touring next year.

Campbell, a former professional spoon player, became lead singer of UB40 when his brother Ali left the group in 2008.

Ali Campbell has since toured as part of the breakaway group UB40 Featuring Ali, Astro & Mickey.