The guitarist died after a 'hard fought' health battle, according to an official statement.

British rock guitarist John Sykes, who played for acclaimed bands such as Whitesnake and Thin Lizzy has died aged 65. Sykes’ death was announced via his official Facebook page on Monday night, confirming that he had succumbed to cancer.

Some of the world’s biggest rockers have paid tribute to former Thin Lizzy and Whitesnake guitarist John Sykes who died at age 65 after a “hard-fought” battle with cancer