SIR Paul McCartney has paid tribute to The Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts who has died at the age of 80.

The former Beatle, who has a home in Peamarsh, near Rye, paid tribute to Charlie in a video post on social media.

Sir Paul described Charlie, who lived in Lewes during the 1960s, as a “fantastic drummer, steady as a rock”.

He added: “He was a lovely guy. I knew he was ill, but I didn’t know he was this ill.

“Lots of love to his family, his wife and children and extended family. Condolences to the Stones. It will be a huge blow to them because Charlie was a rock.

“Love you, Charlie. I’ve always loved you. You were a beautiful man. Great condolences and sympathies to his family.”

The Argus: Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts has died at the age of 80Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts has died at the age of 80

Charlie, who died “peacefully” at a London hospital on Monday surrounded by his family, was considered the most mild-mannered of the Stones, providing an essential counterbalance to his more exuberant bandmates.

Rolling Stones Sir Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood have paid poignant tributes to the drummer’s death at the age of 80.

The quartet had been together since 1963, working on era-defining tracks including (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction, Paint It Black, Jumpin’ Jack Flash and Brown Sugar.

Ronnie shared a picture of himself and Watts on Twitter, writing alongside it: “I love you my fellow Gemini – I will dearly miss you – you are the best.”

Sir Mick paid tribute to his colleague of almost 60 years, sharing a picture of Watts smiling while seated behind a drumkit.

In his tribute, Keith, 77, posted a picture of Watts’ drumkit with a “Closed” sign hanging on it.

A statement by the drummer’s publicist described him as “cherished husband, father and grandfather” and “one of the greatest drummers of his generation”.

News of his death came just weeks after it was announced that Watts, who celebrated his 80th birthday in June, was to miss the band’s forthcoming US tour.

He leaves behind Shirley, daughter Seraphina, and granddaughter Charlotte.

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