By Hannah Ahmed

Copyright birminghammail

Chris Dreja of The Yardbirds has died at the age of 79. The star, who was part of the original line-up for the 1960s band was confirmed to have died by his sister-in-law, Muriel Levy. Muriel said Chris had been battling health issues for years in a sad statement. She wrote: “This is with a deep sadness that I have to announce that my brother-in-law Chris Dreja, former member of legendary band The Yardbirds, rhythm guitarist and also bass player has passed away after years of health problems. READ MORE: PETA launches huge billboard outside KFC near Birmingham “I share the pain with my sister Kate who took care of him during all those years and his daughter Jackie. May he RIP.” Chris, Anthony Topham, Keith Relf, Jim McCarthy and Paul Samwell-Smith were all founding members of The Yardbirds in 1963. As the years progressed, major stars such as Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page all respectively played with the group. Jimmy Page, who helped to form Led Zeppelin, paid his respects to the star: “I heard today of the passing of musician Chris Dreja, who passionately played with the iconic Yardbirds, on rhythm guitar and then the bass. READ MORE: Sarah Ferguson hit with fresh blow as £400k loss revealed “I hadn’t seen him in a while, and I wish I had. RIP Chris.” One fan said: “Rest In Peace. Chris was also a photographer, and produced and arranged many of The Yardbirds more interesting, orchestral songs. A true artist. Rock on.” Another added: “REST PEACFULLY CHRIS WE LOVE YOU THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC.” A third said: “Rest in peace lad.”