ANDY Fletcher, keyboard player with 'Hall of Fame' pop band Depeche Mode, which was formed in 1980, has died – aged 60.

In a statement posted on social media this evening (Thursday, 26 May), the band said: "Fletch had a true heart of gold and was always there when you needed support, a lively conversation, a good laugh or a cold pint."

The band added they were "shocked and filled with overwhelming sadness with the untimely passing of our dear friend, family member, and bandmate".

The Nottingham-born keyboard player was a founding member of the band which found success with their dark electronic sound and had chart success in the 1980s and 1990s with singles including New Life, Enjoy the Silence and Just Can't Get Enough.

He remained with the band throughout its four-decade history, which included two number one albums, Ultra and Songs of Faith and Devotion.

His last studio album with the band was 2017's Spirit, their 14th, which reached number five in the UK albums chart.

He leaves behind wife Grainne, to whom he was married for almost 30 years, and two children, Megan and Joe.

Depeche Mode was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame two years ago.