Bandmates pay tribute as legendary heavy metal drummer dies aged 73

He rejoined his bandmates in 2022 as they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Judas Priest drummer Les Binks has died aged 73, with his former bandmates paying tribute, saying his "acclaim will live on".

Binks was born in Northern Ireland and was a member of the band from 1977 to 1979, rejoining his former bandmates in 2022 when they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

He started his career in the early 70s, playing with Eric Burdon of the Animals, the funk band War, and on Deep Purple bassist Roger Glover's album The Butterfly Ball and the Grasshopper's Feast.

Binks also played for the pop band Fancy, who had two US hits in 1974. His connection to Roger Glover saw him join Judas Priest for their 1977 world tour.

Binks stepped into the role Simon Phillips had held in the band. Binks remained with Judas Priest until July 1979, recording the studio albums Stained Class and Killing Machine and the live album Unleashed in the East.

He left the band because he felt he had been hired as a "freelance session drummer" and was never made an official member.

He went on to play with Charlie Whitney and Axis Point, Lionheart and Tytan. He later played in a classic rock cover band in London Called The Shaker.

In 2013 he joined Raw Glory and in 2015 played around London in Broke Bones. Two years later, he started performing classic Judas Priest songs live with a new band called Les Binks' Priesthood.

It was in 2022 that he rejoined his bandmates for a performance as they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

It was his first public appearance with the band in 43 years and one of his last before his death.

A post from Judas Priest on Instagram read: "We are deeply saddened about the passing of Les and send our love to his family, friends and fans.

"The acclaimed drumming he provided was first class - demonstrating his unique techniques, flair, style and precision - Thank you Les - your acclaim will live on....."

Binks' cause of death has not yet been revealed. Although his death was made public on April 14, he passed away on March 15 in London.