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Chris Dreja of The Yardbirds has died at the age of 79.

The star, who was part of the original line-up for the 1960s band was confirmed to have died by his sister-in-law, Muriel Levy.

Muriel said Chris had been battling health issues for years in a sad statement.

She wrote: "This is with a deep sadness that I have to announce that my brother-in-law Chris Dreja, former member of legendary band The Yardbirds, rhythm guitarist and also bass player has passed away after years of health problems.

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"I share the pain with my sister Kate who took care of him during all those years and his daughter Jackie. May he RIP."

Chris, Anthony Topham, Keith Relf, Jim McCarthy and Paul Samwell-Smith were all founding membe

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