Chas Newby dead: The Beatles’ former bass player dies aged 81 with tributes to The Quarrymen musician with ‘big smile’

A BASS guitarist who played with The Beatles has died aged 81.

Chas Newby was a member of John Lennon’s first band The Quarrymen.

The Cavern Club in Liverpool today announced his death.

A spokesperson said: “It’s with great sadness to hear about the passing of Chas Newby,” Cavern Club Liverpool, where The Beatles started their career, wrote on Facebook.

“Chas stepped in for The Beatles for a few dates when Stuart Sutcliffe stayed in Hamburg and latterly he played for The Quarrymen.

“Interestingly, he was also the first left-handed bass guitarist in The Beatles. RIP Chas Newby thoughts and well wishes from everybody at The Cavern Club.”

The Beatles biographer and historian Mark Lewisohn added: “RIP Chas Newby, fill-in Beatle and fair chap.

“He deputised for Stuart on a few dates when the Beatles returned from Hamburg the first time, end-1960, including the momentous Litherland date.

“Latterly he’s been one of the Quarry Men too. A charming man, always a pleasure to meet.”