Yoko Ono Pays Tribute To The Late Neil Aspinall

Yoko Ono has described the former chief executive of Apple Corps, Neil Aspinall, who died last weekend, as “an important member of the Beatles’ family”.

In a statement, Ono said: “John (Lennon) loved him. I continued to treasure his wisdom and support in the years after John’s passing.”

Aspinall, who was widely regarded by fans as the fifth member of the group, passed away in hospital in New York at the age of 66.

Ono's statement added: “My love and deepest sympathy go to Neil’s wife Suzy, and to his children. With love, Yoko Ono Lennon”.

After meeting Sir Paul McCartney and George Harrison at Grammar school in Liverpool, Aspinall formed a close relationship with the entire group.

As well as driving them to early gigs, he built a considerable reputation during his time at Apple Corps, where he protected the their copyright and music.

In a joint Apple Corps statement, Sir Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr and the widows of Harrison and Lennon said that they “will always retain the fondest memories of a great man."