DRUMMER Jet Black spent a night in Oxford’s John Radcliffe Hospital after suffering breathing problems before a gig with his band The Stranglers.

The 74-year-old was taken to hospital by ambulance from the O2 Academy in Cowley Road at about 5.30pm on Monday.

At hospital he was diagnosed with a severe chest infection and stayed in hospital overnight.

Mr Black has been the band’s drummer since their formation nearly 40 years ago.

When he began to feel unwell shortly after the soundcheck, a member of the band’s crew, Ian Barnard, stepped in to play the sold-out gig.

Band spokesman Warren Higgins said Mr Black was now recuperating and would rejoin the band’s tour as soon as he was fit and able.

He added: “We wish him a speedy recovery.”

It was unclear last night whether Mr Black would need to spend another night in hospital.