Ted McKenna, drummer who played with The Sensational Alex Harvey Band as well as Rory Gallagher, has died, age 68.

It was announced on Saturday morning that Edward McKenna, known as Ted, died during surgery at the age of 68.

It is believed the Lennoxtown-born musician, whose career began in 1966, suffered a fatal haemorrhage during a hernia operation.

McKenna joined The Sensational Alex Harvey Band in 1972, appearing on all of the band’s seven studio albums, before working with Irish singer and guitarist Rory Gallagher from 1978 – 1981. He worked with various other acts including Greg Lake, Womack & Womack, and recently, the Michael Schenker Group.

Despite primarily working as a rock musician, McKenna also played with groups in a range of genres, including American soul duo

Gallagher’s brother Dónal said: “R.I.P. Ted McKenna. Ted was a great guy and wonderful musician, I was shocked to hear of his premature passing.

“My sincere condolences to all Ted’s family and friends. Bless you Ted, you’ll always bring a smile to my face and delight to my ears with your playing.”