Ex-Fleetwood Mac guitarist and vocalist Bob Welch was found dead inside his home in Nashville in the US.

He was killed by a self-inflicted gunshot to the chest. Police said Welch, who was aged 66 and also had a solo career, is understood to have had health issues recently.

Welch was part of Fleetwood Mac in their early years from 1971 to 1974 before forming hard rock group Paris.

Three years later came the platinum solo album French Kiss with the hits Sentimental Lady and Ebony Eyes.

Nashville police spokesman Don Aaron said: "Officers discovered Mr Welch with a single gunshot wound to the chest.

"There was a suicide note found at the residence. Mr Welch had health issues. The police are investigating it as a suicide and there was no evidence of foul play."

Welch was found dead by his wife.

He worked on early 70s Fleetwood Mac albums such as Future Games and Bare Trees.

Welch left the band before their biggest selling period, with albums such as 1977's Rumours coming after Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks joined the group. Agencies