Morrissey pays tribute to Andy Rourke, bassist of The Smiths

In his statement, Marr confirmed that Rourke died following “a lengthy illness with pancreatic cancer”.

Morrissey, amongst many others – including The Smiths drummer Mike Joyce – has paid tribute to the bassist.

In a post on his Morrissey Centra website, the vocalist of The Smiths has noted that he was "not prepared" to have to pay tribute to his bandmate – "When someone dies, out come the usual blandishments … as if their death is there to be used. I’m not prepared to do this with Andy," he said.

Later adding: "He will never die as long as his music is heard. He didn't ever know his own power, and nothing that he played had been played by someone else. His distinction was so terrific and unconventional and he proved it could be done."

The pair have had somewhat of a troubled history – Morrissey is alleged to have fired Rourke from The Smiths because of his drug use, leaving him a postcard on the windscreen of his car, informing him of his exit from the band.

Rourke and drummer Mike Joyce had also started legal proceedings against Morrissey and Marr over royalties. Short on money due to his heroin addiction, Rourke settled out of court for £83,000 and 10% of future royalties while relinquishing all further claims.