Mark E. Smith, frontman of The Fall, has died at the age of 60

Sad news this evening as it has been announced that Mark E. Smith, frontman of iconic Mancunian post-punk band The Fall, has died at the age of 60.

Smith first formed the band - which he was the only consistent member of - in his native Manchester in 1976 and was a prolific songwriter and musician, releasing 32 studio albums in total - the most recent being last year's 'New Facts Emerge'.

He is perhaps best known by a younger generation for famously saying "I just thought they were a load of retarded Irish folk singers" after encountering Mumford & Sons backstage at an Irish festival a number of years ago.

His death was confirmed with a statement on the band's website that read: "'It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of Mark E. Smith. He passed this morning at home. A more detailed statement will follow in the next few days. In the meantime, Pam & Mark’s family request privacy at this sad time."

RIP.