MICK Ralphs, a co-founder of Mott the Hoople along with Wye Valley musicians Pete Overend Watts and Dale ‘Buffin’ Griffin, has died at the age of 81.

Ross-on-Wye is set to host MottFest in October this year to honour the town’s musicians with a three-day festival, during which a memorial bench and a plaque will be unveiled to their memory.

Ralphs had been playing in a Hereford-based band the Buddies which joined forces with the Ross-based Soulents to form The Doc Thomas Group in 1966, before becoming Mott in 1969 with the arrival of singer Ian Hunter.

Mott the Hoople had numerous hit singles including All the Young Dudes, penned by David Bowie in 1972, All the Way from Memphis, Roll Away the Stone and The Golden Age of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Ralphs left Mott the Hoople in 1973 to form Bad Company, who went on to have huge hits such as Feel Like Makin’ Love and Can’t Get Enough and are due to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame later this year.

Mott the Hoople reformed with legendary frontman Hunter for several gigs in 2009, including a string of dates at Hammersmith Apollo, and played their first live gig in 35 years as a warm-up at Monmouth’s Blake Theatre while rehearsing at Rockfield Studios.

A statement from Bad Company singer Paul Rodgers said: “Our Mick has passed, my heart just hit the ground. He has left us with exceptional songs and memories.

“He was my friend, my songwriting partner, an amazing and versatile guitarist who had the greatest sense of humour.

“Our last conversation a few days ago we shared a laugh but it won't be our last. There are many memories of Mick that will create laughter. Condolences to everyone who loved him.”