The Darkness recruit new bassist

Poullain (left) quit the band last month after "musical differences"

Rock band The Darkness have recruited a new bass player after the departure of original member Frankie Poullain.

Richie Edwards was member Dan Hawkins' guitar technician for two years before joining the Brit Award-winning band.

Singer Justin Hawkins said: "Richie's a good laugh and he's really good at playing bass, and at this stage that's all that matters."

Poullain left the band last month, with his ex-bandmates blaming "musical differences" for his departure.