'Fifth' Beatle Neil Aspinall Dies Aged 66

Neil Aspinall, who was widely regarded by Beatles fans as the group’s fifth member, has died aged 66.

The unofficial Beatle had spent over 35 years protecting the group’s music and copyright as the chief executive of Apple Corps.

Aspinall also played backing instruments on a number of the group’s songs, including, 'Magical Mystery Tour'.

In a statement, Sir Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr and the widows of John Lennon and George Harrison said that friends and loved ones “will always retain the fondest memories of a great man."

Before standing down as chief executive last year, Aspinall represented the group in their long standing battle with Apple Inc.

The dispute, which centred on the Apple name and royalties, was finally settled in February 2007.

Aspinall first met Sir Paul McCartney and George Harrison at a Grammar school in Liverpool before becoming the Beatles tour driver and assistant.  

Aspinall passed away at a hospital in New York City. It’s believed he had been suffering from lung cancer.