Motorhead drummer Phil Taylor dies aged 61

The band praised Taylor in a Facebook post, saying he "fuelled many a young boy’s punk/metal hairstyles"

(Rex features)

Motörhead have paid tribute to their former drummer Phil Taylor, who has died at the age of 61.

Taylor, known by his monicker “Philthy Animal”, was a member roof the legendary rock band between 1975 and 1984.

The band’s guitarist Eddie Clarke wrote on his official Facebook page that Taylor had been ill for some time: “but that does not make it any easier when the time finally comes”.

“I have known Phil since he was 21 and he was one hell of a character,” he said.

“Fortunately we made some fantastic music together and I have many many fond memories of our time together. Rest in Peace, Phil!”

A post on Motorhead’s Facebook page paid tribute to Taylor.

“Lil’ Philthy ... he who once shouted ‘stop wincing about’ on an album ... he who fuelled many a young boy’s punk/metal hairstyles ... he who played the drums with fury and intent ... he who liked to call people ‘wazzocks’ once in a while ... friend, Roman, Derbyshireman ... rest in peace ... with much love.”

According to the band’s website, Taylor initially left the band after they recorded a version of their hit Ace of Spades for the television series The Young Ones.