Motörhead guitarist Phil Campbell dies aged 64

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Gavin ThomasBBC Wales

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Phil Campbell’s family said he died “peacefully” following a “long and courageous battle in intensive care”

The rock guitarist Phil Campbell has died peacefully aged 64, his family have said.

Born in Pontypridd, Campbell was Motörhead’s guitarist from 1984 until 2015, when the heavy metal group disbanded following the death of frontman Lemmy Kilmister.

In a statement on Facebook, Campbell’s family said he had died after a “long and courageous battle in intensive care following a complex major operation”.

They described him as a “devoted husband, a wonderful father, and a proud and loving grandfather, known affectionately as ‘Bampi’.”

“He was deeply loved by all who knew him and will be missed immensely,” his family added.

“His legacy, music and the memories he created with so many will live on forever.”

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Mick “Wurzel” Burston, Lemmy Kilmister, Phil Campbell and Pete Gill of Motörhead, in 1984

Motörhead were the authors of heavy metal anthems including the Ace of Spades.

Campbell went on to tour with his own band, alongside his three sons, and recently performed a “sell-out” show at the Muni arts centre in his hometown of Pontypridd.

“All at Y Muni are saddened to hear of the passing of Phil Campbell,” the arts centre said.

“Phil was a huge influence on the music industry and will be remembered fondly.”

The German heavy metal singer Doro Pesch said she was “at a loss for words”, adding that it had been an honour to call Campbell her friend.

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