Lemmy Dies After Boxing Day Cancer Diagnosis

The band confirmed that the 70-year-old died at his home while "sitting in front of his favourite video game with his family".

In a statement, Motorhead said Lemmy had learned of the cancer diagnosis on 26 December.

Motorhead had celebrated their 40th anniversary in 2015

His fellow band members wrote: "We cannot begin to express our shock and sadness, there aren't words.

"We will say more in the coming days, but for now, please... play Motorhead loud, play Hawkwind loud, play Lemmy's music LOUD.

"Have a drink or few. Share stories. Celebrate the LIFE this lovely, wonderful man celebrated so vibrantly himself. HE WOULD WANT EXACTLY THAT."

The British group, which was first formed by Lemmy in 1975, had just celebrated their 40th anniversary.

Lemmy was famed for turning amplifiers to their maximum setting during shows, and was also renowned for his fondness of whisky and distinctive "mutton chops".

Ozzy Osbourne, lead vocalist of Black Sabbath, was one of the first to pay tribute, tweeting: "Lost one of my best friends, Lemmy, today. He will be sadly missed. He was a warrior and a legend. I will see you on the other side."

Meanwhile, the wrestler Triple H wrote: "One life, lived your way, from the beginning, till the end. See you down the road my friend... Thank you for the gift of your sound."

Motorhead had been due to perform several shows across the UK in January - including in Newcastle, Glasgow, Manchester and London.