Moody Blues singer Lodge dies at the age of 82

The Moody Blues singer and "darling husband" John Lodge has died aged 82, his family have confirmed.

Bass player Lodge, who joined the band in 1966 with fellow singer Justin Hayward - following the departure of Denny Laine and Clint Warwick in 1966, was "suddenly and unexpectedly taken from us," according to his family.

"It is with the deepest sadness that we have to announce that John Lodge, our darling husband, father, grandfather, father-in-law and brother has been suddenly and unexpectedly taken from us," the family said in statement.

"As anyone who knew this massive-hearted man knows, it was his enduring love of his wife, Kirsten, and his family, that was the most important thing to him, followed by his passion for music, and his faith."

It continued: "John peacefully slipped away