DEPECHE Mode’s keyboardist Andy Fletcher has died at the age of 60, the band has announced.

Fletcher, nicknamed “Fletch”, founded the group in Basildon in 1980 and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame two years ago.

In a statement, Depeche Mode said: “We are shocked and filled with overwhelming sadness with the untimely passing of our dear friend, family member and bandmate.

“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”.

Lol Tolhurst, drummer with The Cure, shared a heartfelt tribute to Fletcher after news of his death broke.

“Very sad news today. Andy Fletcher of Depeche Mode has passed,” he tweeted.

“I knew Andy and considered him a friend. We crossed many of the same pathways as younger men.

“My heart goes out to his family, bandmates, and DM fans. RIP Fletch.”

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Carol Decker, lead singer for the band T’Pau, tweeted: “Oh no!!! Fletch was a lovely guy DM one of my all time favourite bands sending all my love to his family friends and band members.”