The Darkness unveil new bassist

Music

13:30 16 June 2005

The Darkness have unveiled their new bassist - and the musician admits he is "incredibly lucky" to be in the band.

Richie Edwards, who had been working as the group's guitar technician, replaces axed bass player Frankie Poullain who was "forced out" of the glam rock outfit by singer Justin Hawkins.

The new addition admits he was stunned when he was asked to take over from Poullain, and still can't believe he has been asked to join the chart-topping act.

He said: "It's difficult to put into words just how incredible it is. Music has been my life forever, and the only thing I've ever wanted to do is be in a band.

"After years spent trying to make it, I just assumed it wasn't going to happen. To be thrown this lifeline, to finally be given this opportunity - it's awesome. I just feel very lucky."

Poullain left the group last month, insisting he had been pushed out by Justin and Darkness manager Sue Whitehouse, Justin's girlfriend.

He said at the time: "Against my wishes I have been forced out of the group.

"At Darkness HQ I have gradually been frozen out over a long period of time. The reason for this is not yet clear."

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