Chester Bennington’s Linkin Park bandmates have paid an emotional tribute to their former lead singer on the first anniversary of his death.
The five remaining members – Mike Shinoda, Joe Hahn, Dave Farrell, Rob Bourdon, and Brad Delson – wrote a message to their “brother” on Friday to mark a year since he took his own life.
A post from the band on Instagram said: “To our brother Chester, It has been a year since your passing – a surreal rotation of grief, heartbreak, refusal, and recognition.
“And yet it sill feels like you are close by, surrounding us with your memory and your light. Your one-of-a-kind spirit has authored an indelible imprint on our hearts – our jokes, our joy, and our tenderness.
“Eternally grateful for the love, life, and creative passion you shared with us and the world. We miss you more than words can express.”
It was signed with “love” from “M, J, D, R, B” – the first initial of the five remaining band members.
The star’s wife, Talinda, also paid tribute, tweeting: “RIP my love.”
R.I.P. my love https://t.co/uBiqfB192I
— Talinda Bennington (@TalindaB) July 20, 2018
And speaking of the day her husband died, she told Fox News Los Angeles: “It’s the re-traumatisation. That day is so seared in my mind.”
Across the world, fans have been holding memorials in honour of the father-of-six, with ceremonies held in countries such as Mexico, Germany and the UK, as well in the United States.
Bennington, 41, was found dead at his Los Angeles home on July 20 2017. A coroner later ruled he had taken his own life.
The Grammy Award-winning musician had battled with depression and substance abuse for years before his death.