RONNIE WOOD of The Rolling Stones

The guitarist has flown back to the UK from America after hearing ART, 69, lost his six-month battle with the disease.

A source says, "Ronnie's devastated. Art played an important role in developing his musical skills."

So far none of the band's gigs have been cancelled and Wood is expected to return to the tour soon.

Yesterday (06NOV06) it was revealed frontman SIR MICK JAGGER's father was in hospital following a fall.

Source: WENN