Injured Richards leaves hospital

Keith Richards (r) is one of rock's most legendary hellraisers

Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards has been released from hospital in New Zealand, where he was treated for a head injury.

Richards, 62, suffered "mild concussion" after reportedly falling out of a coconut tree while on holiday in Fiji with bandmate Ronnie Wood.

He was airlifted to Auckland's Ascot Hospital for observation on Saturday, where he underwent a brain scan.

"He has been discharged," hospital duty manager Geoff Sparks said.

"I can categorically confirm Mr Richards... is no longer a patient in this hospital," he said. But it was not clear exactly when he was released.

'Precaution'

The circumstances of the accident have not been confirmed, but widespread media reports said it happened at the exclusive Wakaya Club resort in Fiji.

A spokesperson for the band said: "Following treatment locally and as a precautionary measure, he flew to a hospital accompanied by his wife, Patti, for observation."

Richards, known for his hedonistic lifestyle, was voted rock's top hellraiser in a poll last year.

The Rolling Stones are currently in the middle of their A Bigger Bang world tour.

They played in Japan, China, Australia and New Zealand in April and are due to start the European leg in Barcelona on 27 May.