Charlie Watts, the Rolling Stones drummer has throat cancer, said a spokesman yesterday. Charlie Watts is 63. According to his spokesman, he is undergoing radiotherapy and should make a full recovery.

Watts is reaching the end of his treatment. The throat cancer was diagnosed in June of this year after a minor operation. He is having treatment in London, UK.

The spokesman said "He's expected to make a full recovery and start work with the rest of the band later in the year.?

Watts used to be a smoker ? he gave up over twenty years ago.

A family friend said "He's very positive because he's been told he has every chance of being completely cured. The last thing he wants is everyone calling and making a fuss, thinking he's going to die." (The Mail on Sunday, UK Tabloid).

According to his spokesman, Charlie Watt?s radiotherapy treatment has not altered the group?s tour or recording arrangements.