Reg Presley, frontman for the British band The Troggs, has died of complications from lung cancer. He was 71.
Presley enjoyed decades of success with his band–whose hits included “Wild Thing” and “Love Is All Around”–and helped inspire the early days of garage and punk rock. However, in his last years Presley fell into ill health and suffered several strokes. He retired last year after being diagnosed with lung cancer. He sent out a statement for the band’s fans around that time, explaining what had happened.
“As you all know I was taken ill whilst doing a gig in Germany in December. During my stay in hospital tests showed that in fact I have lung cancer. I am receiving chemotherapy treatment and at the moment not feeling too bad. However I’ve had to call time on The Troggs and retire. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for the cards and calls and for your love, loyalty and support over the years.”
The Troggs made an announcement on their official website concerning his death on Monday:
This is the hardest statement I have ever written. I am heartbroken to announce that Reg Presley passed away this morning 4th February 2013. He died peacefully at his Andover home and was surrounded by all of his family. They are all absolutely devastated and there will be a huge gap in their family life. My husband Liam and myself would like to offer our sincere and deepest condolences to Brenda, Karen and Jason and their families. Reg will never be forgotten and we are proud to have known him.