Merseybeat legend Len Garry has died at the age of 84.
Garry was a tea chest bassist with The Quarrymen, playing alongside John Lennon and Paul McCartney before the band later evolved into The Beatles.
He joined the group shortly after their formation and featured in its first line-up with Lennon, McCartney, Colin Hanton, Pete Shotton, Eric Griffiths and Rod Davis.
The Wavertree-born musician was also part of the group’s maiden performance at the Cavern Club and later the band’s revival with its surviving members in 1997.
Len’s daughter Jane Garry confirmed his death on Monday (March 2) following a case of pneumonia after being admitted to hospital with a chest infestion.
She said: “My Dad ‘Len Garry’ passed away at home in the early hours this morning.
“The doctor told us he had hours to live and I said straight away ‘he has to come home.’ Which the doctor allowed. I travelled with dad in the ambulance and got him home.
“My mum, my sister, my brother in law and myself stayed by Dad’s bed holding his hand, talking to him and telling him how much we love him and how proud we are of him as he was passing away and taking his last breathes.
‘Wherever we inhabit we try to help the community – our purpose is to spread humanity and peace’
“I love you Dad and I will miss you Dad for the rest of my life. I’m beyond devastated.”
After hearing the news of his passing, McCartney paid tribute to his ‘dear old mate’.
He said: “He was a lovely guy and I’m sad to see him go but glad that we had so many fun times together.
“Rest in Peace Len, Love Paul.”