Derek Bell RIP

The Chieftains have just announced the sudden death of band member Derek Bell MBE.

Reads an official statement: "Following a recent concert in the US, Derek had remained behind for minor surgery and a number of routine health checks. He had just been given the all clear to return home, so his death has come as a great shock to all those close to him.

"His passing has left a silence that will never be filled and anyone who has had the honour of meeting him will know the world will just be a much less interesting place without him. We will all miss him terribly. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam."

One of the first people to respond to the tragic news is Brian Kennedy who says: "The music world has lost an extraordinary talent and I feel honoured to have worked with him – my love goes to his family."

Those sentiments are echoed by Wonderland Promotions mainman and long-time friend Eamonn McCann.

"Irish music has lost one of its finest ambassadors," he proffers. "We extend our heartfelt sympathy to his family and many friends in the music industry."

There'll be more news and reaction on hotpress.com as we get it.