Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain has revealed that he suffered a stroke earlier this year that left him ‘paralysed’ down one side.
The 71-year-old shared a statement giving fans an update on his health and said that he is undergone ‘10 weeks of intense therapy'.
A message shared on Iron Maiden's social media channels read: "A message from Nicko: Hello Boys and Girls, I hope this message finds you all well! The reason I'm writing to you all today is to let you know of a very serious health problem that I have been through. In January I had a stroke, thank the Lord it was a minor one referred to as a TIA.
"It left me paralysed on my right side from my shoulder on down, of course I was very worried that my career was over but with the love and support from my wife, Rebecca and family, my doctors, especially Julie my OT (Occupational Therapist), and my Maiden family I was able to bounce back to somewhere near 70 percent recovered.
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"After 10 weeks of intense therapy it was almost time to start rehearsals for our tour. I feel it's important to let you know about this now instead of earlier as I was mainly concerned with doing my job and concentrating on getting back to 100 percent fitness.
"I'm not there yet but by the grace of God I'm getting better and stronger as the weeks go by. Thank you all for a most wonderful and magical tour so far, you have all been so amazing. Well that's it from me. God bless you all, stay safe and well and I look forward to seeing you all somewhere in time."
More to follow.
Claire Reid