[Slowhand] Charlie Watts has throat cancer BBC announces tonight

[An English Boy]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/music/3566160.stm


Last Updated: Saturday, 14 August, 2004, 21:18 GMT 22:18 UK


Charlie Watts, left, is being treated in London

Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts is being treated for throat cancer, a 
spokesman for the band has said.

Watts is nearing the end of a six-week course of radiotherapy at a hospital 
near his home in Chelsea, west London.

He was diagnosed with the disease in June and has since undergone four weeks 
of the radiotherapy treatment.

The band's spokesman said: "He is expecting to make a full recovery and 
start work with the rest of the band later in the year."

Watts, 63, is a former smoker, but has not smoked since the 1960s, when the 
band shot to international fame.

His bandmates have been informed and he has been supported by wife Shirley 
during his radiotherapy.

Watts is said to be in "good form" and has been walking to hospital for his 
treatment.

The spokesman said the band was currently taking a break from recording and 
touring.