Wattie Buchan, frontman for the veteran Scottish punk band The Exploited has been rushed to hospital after suffering a heart attack on stage. The group, which formed in Scotland more than 30 years ago, was performing in Lisbon, Portugal, at the time.
The UK’s Daily Record reports, Buchan, 57, was onstage with the Exploited last week, taking part in the Tour of Chaos with Hatebreed and Napalm Death, when he slipped to his knees mid-set at the Republica de Musica venue in Lisbon.
The band stopped the gig, and Buchan was rushed offstage and to the hospital after suffering a heart attack. You can see video of the events below. It is thought the singer will be kept in hospital for at least a week and the band have cancelled all gigs until at least May.
“We are sorry to say that due to a severe illness that Wattie can’t continue with the tour. He will be in hospital for at least a week,” said a statement from a band spokesperson. “Thanks for all the get well messages.”
Hundreds of fans have taken to social media sites to wish Buchan a speedy recovery. Some dedicated Portugese followers even sent a special-made t-shirt wishing Buchanan well, tacking on the phrase “I’ve been in Lisbon and all I got was an [sic] heart-attack and this lousy t-shirt.”
Buchan’s wife also posted an update on the group’s Facebook page today, “My lovely husband Wattie has asked me to say thanks to everyone from him (and also thanks from myself) for all their well wishes and support for him! Means a lot to us both and has been really helpful in cheering him up.”
The Exploited recently signed a new record deal and are planning to reissue their classic albums soon. They also have a brand new LP due sometime this year.
Watch: Exploited stop mid-Gig, frontman rushed to hospital
