CHAS HODGES DIES AGED 74

Chas Hodges, renowned as one half of the successful duo Chas & Dave, has died from cancer.

In a statement on the band’s Twitter account, it was announced: “It is with tremendous sadness that we announce the passing of our very own Chas Hodges. Despite receiving successful treatment for oesophageal cancer recently, Chas suffered organ failure and passed away peacefully in his sleep in the early hours of this morning.”

Hodges, who was diagnosed with cancer in February this year, formed Chas & Dave with Dave Peacock in 1975. Prior to this, Hodges had been a much respected musician when working with famed producer Joe Meek, a stint which included being in The Outlaws with a young Ritchie Blackmore. He was also in Heads Hands & Feet with Albert Lee, backed both Jerry Lee Lewis and Gene Vincent, as well as being a member of The Rockers with Phil Lynott, John Coghlan and Roy Wood.

Jimmy Page personally invited Chas & Dave to join Led Zeppelin on the bill at Knebworth Park in 1979.

Here’s Hodges with The Outlaws performing the song ‘Law & Order’ in 1963: