The cause of death of Welsh rock musician Phil Campbell has been confirmed. The Motorhead guitarist died after what his family described as a "long and courageous battle" in March this year.
The 64-year-old, who was born in Pontypridd, was best known for being the rock band's guitarist from 1984 until they broke up in 2015.
Inquest findings
An inquest has heard that Campbell died from multi-organ failure on March 13 after suffering complications following "necessary" surgeries. Campbell suffered complications after multiple surgeries, and his death could not have been prevented, St Pancras Coroner's Court heard on Friday.
He underwent two liver transplants and bowel surgery at the Royal Free Hospital in London earlier this year. The inquest heard he had previously drunk alcohol to excess but had been sober for seven years by the time of his death. Campbell had suffered from Hepatitis-C, but the inquest heard this had been treated.
Final days
While the second of the two liver transplants was successful, Campbell suffered further complications. He underwent bowel surgery and was moved to intensive care, where he deteriorated rapidly.
He died in hospital on March 13, with his cause of death recorded as multi-organ failure by coroner Dr Richard Brittain. Dr Brittain said: "My view is that there is nothing here to suggest his death could have been prevented." He summarised Campbell died from "recognised complications of necessary surgical procedures".
Tributes and legacy
Tributes poured in for the guitarist following his death. A statement posted by his children read: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Philip Anthony Campbell, who passed away peacefully last night following a long and courageous battle in intensive care after a complex major operation."
"Phil was a devoted husband, a wonderful father, and a proud and loving grandfather, known affectionately as 'Bampi.' He was deeply loved by all who knew him and will be missed immensely. His legacy, music and the memories he created with so many will live on forever."
Motorhead was founded in 1975 by the bass player and singer Lemmy, whose real name was Ian Kilmister. The group helped pioneer heavy metal music in Britain with a string of top 10 albums including 1980 hit, Ace Of Spades, 1981's No Sleep Til Hammersmith and 1982's Ironfist.
Campbell was the second longest serving Motorhead bandmember, after Lemmy, and went on to record music and tour with his sons, Todd, Dane and Tyla as the group Phil Campbell and The Bastard Sons.
