First drummer for the Bee Gees, Colin Peterson, who played on some of the group’s earliest hits, has died aged 78.

The news was announced via a Facebook post by his current band, Best of The Bee Gees. A cause of death has not been revealed.

Alongside a photo of Petersen behind his drumkit, the post said: “It is with a heavy heart we announce the passing of our dear friend Colin ‘Smiley’ Petersen. He enriched our lives and bound our group with love, care and respect. Not sure how we can go on without his glowing smile and deep friendship. We love you Col. Rest in Peace.”

The drummer joined brothers Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb as a member of the Bee Gees in 1966. Peterson contributed drums to albums: Sticks and Specks, Bee Gees’ 1st, Horizontal, Idea, Odessa, and Cucumber Castle.

Following disagreements with manager Robert Stigwood, Peterson formed the band Humpy Bong, alongside Jonathan Kelly and Tim Staffell.

After a short-lived period, the group broke up, and Peterson started a management company with his wife, Joanne Newfield. The pair married in 1968 and have two songs, Jaime and Ben.