UB40 saxophone player and songwriter Brian Travers has died following a “long and heroic” cancer battle. 

The musician, who was a founding member of the reggae band, died at his home in Moseley, Birmingham on August 22. 

A statement from the band said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our comrade, brother, founding UB40 member and musical legend, Brian David Travers.

“Brian passed away yesterday evening after a long and heroic battle with cancer.

“Our thoughts are with Brian’s wife Lesley, his daughter Lisa and son Jamie.

“We are all devastated by this news and ask that you respect the family’s need for privacy at this time.”

The star was first diagnosed with the disease shortly after his 60th birthday in February 2019 and had a double tumour removed the following month.

Brian subsequently revealed he suffered a seizure before Christmas and had faced a second brain tumour operation in two years.

In June this year, UB40 frontman Duncan Campbell announced his departure from the group due to ill health. 

He was replaced by KIOKO musician Matt Doyle, who joined the most recent line-up of Robin Campbell, Jimmy Brown, Earl Falconer, Norman Hassan, Laurence Parry, Tony Mullings, Martin Meredith and Travers.