Former Slade drummer Don Powell suffers stroke

The 73-year-old glam rock icon took ill at his home in Denmark on Saturday and fortunately his step-daughter Emilie, who is a practising doctor, was on hand to look after him.

Don Powell’s family’s statement reads: “Unfortunately Don had a minor stroke on Saturday (29th February) morning. Luckily his step-daughter Emilie, who is a doctor, was at his house in Denmark and Don is now at home recovering and being cared for by his wife and family. We are sure you all share our wishes for him to get behind the kit again as soon as possible.”

Don's wife Hanne has posted a photo of Don smiling on his official website and has given the following update: "On Sunday afternoon I picked Don up from the hospital.He will be monitored from home until Wednesday afternoon as it is less stressful for him to be at home, and that is important at the moment.

“The MRI and CT scan results shows two blood clots in the left frontal lobe, and he is now on medication. There is a narrowing on his artery on his neck so we will know in a few days if he will need an operation. The scan results are sent to the cardiology surgeons to decide.

“Don is tired but in good spirits and he is happy that he can use/feel his right arm and leg again. So, we are all very relieved and thankful."

Don’s good mate Andy Scott of Sweet has also released a statement, which reads: “I am in touch with Don on a daily basis and of course wish him the speediest recovery.

“After the trauma of injury in 2018 and his fight back to fitness in 2019 the last thing one needs in 2020 is another setback. Knowing Don he will be cracking jokes again very soon. Chin up my old mate.

“I am in DK this week so will pop in with some good cheer if you are receiving visitors. Love & best wishes from all in the Sweet camp.”

Last month, Don Powell’s five-decade tenure with Slade came to a sour end when he alleged that Dave Hill had fired him from the band via email.

A statement on his website read: “Dave has sent Don a cold email to inform him that his services are no longer required, after working together and being friends since 1963.”

Disputing Don’s side of the story, Dave Hill said: “I am sad to announce that Don and I will no longer be working together our parting of the ways has not come out of the blue and his announcement is not accurate.

“I wish Don every success in his future efforts. I will, of course, carry on and look forward to many future performances and meeting fans.”

In the wake of the split, Don Powell formed a new band called Don Powell’s Slade.

Everyone at Planet Rock wishes Don a speedy recovery.