Slade's Don Powell claims Dave Hill has fired him via email

Don Powell’s representatives issued a statement on his official website yesterday (3rd February), saying: “It is with great sadness and regret that Don needs to inform his fans that he now is no longer a member of Dave Hill's Slade.”

The statement continues: “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.”

In direct response, this afternoon Dave Hill posted a short statement to Slade’s official Facebook page describing Don’s claims as “not accurate”.

“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,” Dave wrote.

“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.”

Despite the acrimonious split, 73-year-old Don has confirmed he’s launching a new band called Don Powell’s Slade that will feature former Slade II bassist Craig Fenney, amongst others.

“The great news is that Don is now fully fit to play drums again!,” Don's post reads. “He is coming back with his band who will be called Don Powell's Slade. He is forming it with ex-Slade 2 bass guitar member Craig Fenney.

“We will post more news about the recruited members in due course. Don so looks forward to going on the road and seeing all the fans again.”

On top of this Don is also currently working on his debut solo album in North West England with Paul Cookson and Les Glover, and he’s primed to release a new record with Don Powell's Occasional Flames later this year.

The statement concludes: “Don hopes that all his loyal fans will support his new ventures which he is very excited about.”

Don Powell’s Slade have launched a Facebook page, which you can check out here.