Close call

Ash were lucky to avoid serious injury on Friday August 16 when their tour bus careered off the road in America. The band had just completed their Area:2 support with Moby and David Bowie.

"The accident happened while they were driving overnight from Seattle to Detroit," a spokesman tells hotpress.com. "Their bus swerved to avoid a shredded tyre that flew off a truck they were overtaking and the driver only just managed to prevent the vehicle from overturning. The band, who were asleep at the time, were thrown from their bunks – along with all of their luggage – and some injuries sustained.

"Drummer Rick McMurray has several broken ribs, while guitarist Charlotte Hatherley's suspected broken arm has thankfully been given the all-clear. Singer Tim Wheeler, bassist Mark Hamilton and the crew thankfully avoided any damage. Rick's injuries have put in serious doubt the band's performance at the Reading Festival this weekend.

"Ash are still fully intent on returning to the U.S. at the end of this month to start on a brand new tour with Coldplay."